Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 9 Dec 2003

Vol. 576 No. 5

Written Answers. - Garda Recruitment.

Richard Bruton

Question:

391 Mr. R. Bruton asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the actions being taken by the Garda Síochána to ensure the recruitment to the force of young adults who come from areas of Dublin city and county which could be described as socially disadvantaged, at the very least; the number of recruits to the force who have addresses in areas of the city and county which are designated for RAPID funding; if he has had discussions regarding this issue with the Garda Commissioner; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29836/03]

Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform (Mr. McDowell):

I have been informed by the Garda authorities, who are responsible for the detailed allocation of resources, including personnel, that recruitment to the Garda Síochána is governed by the Garda Síochána (Admission and Appointments) Regulations 1988 to 2001, as amended. These are statutory regulations. The recruitment process is administered on behalf of the Garda Síochána by the Civil Service and Local Appointments Commissioners.

The information sought on the number of recruits to the force who have addresses in areas of the city and county which are designated for RAPID funding is not readily available and can only be obtained by the disproportionate expenditure of Garda resources relative to the information required.