Garda Strength

Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 13 May 2010

Thursday, 13 May 2010

Questions (69)

Brian O'Shea

Question:

63 Deputy Brian O’Shea asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the strength of An Garda Síochána at the latest date for which figures are available broken down by full members, those who have attested but not yet concluded their training, those in training; the expected number that will be recruited during 2010; the anticipated numbers at each above category at the end of 2010; the number of members of the force who are expected to retire during 2010; the number who will be recruited in the first half of 2010; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [19616/10]

Written answers

Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform (Deputy Dermot Ahern)

I am informed by the Garda authorities that as at the latest date for which completed returns are available, the personnel strength of An Garda Síochána was 14,532. This figure includes 709 probationer Gardaí who have been attested and will graduate over the next six months. On that date there were also 229 unattested students in training. In relation to retirements, around 80 applications for early retirement have been received so far this year.

The Garda Commissioner is closely monitoring the levels of Garda strength around the country, taking into account the level of retirements and attestations of students. I will continue to consult with my colleague the Minister for Finance on when a resumption of Garda recruitment will be necessary so as to keep Garda numbers up to approved levels. In all this, my priority is to maintain Garda operational strength. A necessary first step will be a competition to establish a panel of approved candidates and, as I recently indicated, I believe that this should take place later this year.