Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 18 April 2023
70. Deputy Cathal Crowe asked the Minister for Justice if his Department is on track to meet the target of 1,000 new gardaí this year, as provided for in Budget 2023; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [17996/23]
View answerAt the outset I would like to assure the Deputy that this Government is committed to ensuring An Garda Síochána has the resources it needs to create stronger, safer communities.
My Department has provided funding for the recruitment of 1,000 new Gardaí this year and we are seeing more Garda recruits enter Templemore approximately every 11 weeks.
As the Deputy will be aware An Garda Síochána launched a new recruitment campaign on 24 March which closed on 14 April 2023. I would like to encourage anyone called as part of the 2022 or 2023 competitions not to defer but to make sure they are fully fit and ready to take up the opportunity.
While the Garda Commissioner is operationally responsible for the management and administration of An Garda Síochána, including recruitment, I regularly engage with him to ensure that every possible support is in place to deliver on this level of recruitment. The Commissioner has assured me the target of 1,000 new Gardaí this year will be met.
An Garda Síochána has undoubtedly faced challenges in recruitment, not least during the COVID restrictions. However, the strong interest levels shown in recent campaigns are a testament to the enduring popularity of a career with An Garda Síochána.
