Jack Chambers
Question:316. Deputy Jack Chambers asked the Minister for Justice and Equality when the next intake of Garda recruits will commence; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12077/20]
View answerTuesday, 23 June 2020
Questions (316)
Written answers
The Deputy will be aware that recruitment to An Garda Síochána is governed by the Garda Síochána (Admissions and Appointments) Regulations 2013. The Public Appointments Service (PAS), on behalf of the Garda Commissioner, manages the initial recruitment stages for selection of Garda Trainees. The final stages of the recruitment process in which candidates are vetted, complete a physical competency test and a medical examination, are managed by the Commissioner and I, as Minister, have no direct involvement in the matter.
I am informed by the Garda authorities that as at 31 May 2020, there are 14,700 Garda Members, supported by over 3,000 Garda staff. This figure includes the Garda trainees from two separate intake classes who attested earlier than scheduled on Friday, 20 March, which was an operational decision taken by the Garda Commissioner in order to augment An Garda Síochána's response to policing the COVID-19 pandemic.
In 2020 it has been anticipated that in total 700 new recruits will commence training. However, as the Deputy will appreciate, these figures may be subject to change in light of An Garda Síochána’s response to the evolving COVID-19 pandemic.
I am informed by An Garda Síochána that it is intended that a Garda Recruitment Campaign will commence in 2020. The Garda authorities advise that they are currently in consultation with the Public Appointments Service about the timing of the launch of this campaign.