asked the Minister for Justice, in relation to the new recruits to be taken on in the Garda Síochána in 1989, if he will supply the following information: (1) the conditions of service that will apply in the initial training period (2) if the allowance being paid will be subject to PRSI deductions and (3) if the course of studies as recommended in the Walsh report will be put into effect; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Written Answers. - Garda Síochána Recruits.
69.
The conditions of service applying to Garda trainees are set out fully in the leaflet entitled "Competition for Selection of Garda Trainees, 1988 — Notes for Candidates and Conditions of Service" which was issued to all intending applicants who inquired about the competition at Garda stations. I have arranged for a copy to be sent to the Deputy for his information.
It is assumed that the allowance referred to in the question is the personal allowance of £50 per week provided for in the conditions of service. In fact this allowance is being increased to £58 per week. This amount will now include a £4 increase awarded in line with the provisions of the 1989 Agreement on Pay in the Public Service and a further £4 to offset the PRSI deduction to which the allowance will be subject.
The Garda authorities have informed me that the course of studies recommended in the Walsh report will be put into effect and the programmes for the new course are currently being prepared.