asked the Minister for Justice if he will state how many applications were received in response to the advertisements for recruits for the Garda Síochána; if he will say on what grounds candidates in certain districts have received notification not to present themselves for examination; and, further, if he will state the standard of education and qualifications generally required of the candidates.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Gárda Síochána Recruits.
1,287 persons asked for forms of application. Forms were given to 642 —the remainder being ineligible on various grounds. Of these 642, 367 were selected by the Commissioner for further testing and inquiries. These were presented to the Civil Service Commissioners for examination. The remainder were notified that they had not been selected.
The qualifications required from candidates are set out in the Gárda Síochána (Appointments) Regulations, 1945. The standard of the educational examination is about that of the primary school sixth standard.
It should be understood that the selection of recruits lies with the Commissioner. The educational examination is designed only to ensure that no person shall be recruited who has not definitely proved that he has at least the minimum standard of education. It is not a competitive examination. Unless a candidate has first been selected by the Commissioner as likely to be accepted there is no object in putting him to the trouble and expense of sitting for the educational examination.
Is the Minister aware that during the recent by-election canvassers in South Mayo made it a definite condition that young men were to be allowed into the Guards and called for examination if farmers voted in a certain way?
Mr. Boland
I am not aware of any such thing.
If you are not aware of it, I will take permission to notify you that it occurred.
Mr. Boland
I would want more evidence than a mere statement from the Deputy.