I can inform the Deputy that recruitment to An Garda Síochána is governed by the Garda Síochána (Admissions and Appointments) Regulations 2013.
The Public Appointments Service (PAS) are managing this recruitment process on behalf of the Garda Commissioner and I have no direct involvement in the matter. The Garda Trainee recruitment competition is held under the Commission for Public Service Appointments (CPSA) Code of Practice ‘Appointment to positions where the Garda Commissioner has Statutory Responsibilities’. Included within the Code are procedures and timelines in relation to submitting reviews/appeals. All candidates, including those who are members of the Garda Reserve, may seek a review in accordance with the Code of Practice.
I understand from the PAS that of the 12,600 candidates who have undergone or are currently undergoing the selection process 27 formal appeals have been received and completed to date. Of these, 3 have had the original selection decision overturned. This competition is still in progress.
A candidate who fails any stage of the current recruitment process will be eliminated and will not be allowed re-enter this particular competition.
Applicants who were unsuccessful at the current campaign are not precluded from reapplying for any future competition once they fulfil the eligibility criteria for entry set at that time.
