Garda Recruitment

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 10 December 2013

Tuesday, 10 December 2013

Questions (354)

Michael McGrath

Question:

354. Deputy Michael McGrath asked the Minister for Justice and Equality if he will review the upper age limit entry requirement of 35 years for entry into An Garda Síochána; if he intends to consider making an allowance for persons who were on the successful 2008 panel, but are now aged over 35 years; if he will consider making an allowance on the upper age limit requirement for serving members of the Garda Reserve; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [52559/13]

Written answers

Minister for Justice and Equality

The maximum recruitment age at which candidates may apply to join the Garda Síochána as a full time member is set by regulation at not more than 35 years. The current maximum age applies without discrimination to everyone, including members of the Garda Reserve, and I have no plans to change it.

This upper age limit of 35 was set having regard to equality legislation and also took into account the following criteria: the cost of training; the need for recruits to serve for a sufficient period of time as full members of the service to recoup this cost; and the operational requirements of the service in terms of having an age profile appropriate to the physical demands placed on full time members in the course of their duty.