Garda Strength

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 5 November 2013

Tuesday, 5 November 2013

Questions (762)

Bernard Durkan

Question:

762. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the current strength of An Garda Síochána, permanent and reserve; when he expects to be in a position to facilitate recruitment in order to alleviate pressure points on various locations throughout the country; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [46237/13]

Written answers

Minister for Justice and Equality

I have been informed by the Garda Commissioner that the personnel strength of An Garda Síochána as of 30 September 2013, the latest date for which figures are readily available, was 13,159 Gardaí, with an additional 1,129 Garda Reserves and just over 2,000 civilians. As has already been announced, a recruitment competition for An Garda Síochána is to commence shortly and it is expected that the first batch of new recruits will enter the Garda college in mid-2014. There are a number of procedural issues that need to be finalised prior to the formal commencement of that competition and these are expected to conclude in the coming weeks. A further announcement will be issued as soon as recruitment starts, both on the Public Appointments Service website and directly to those who have registered an expression of interest in joining the Garda Síochána.