Theresa Ahearn
Ceist:17 Mrs. T. Ahearn asked the Minister for Justice the gender breakdown in all ranks of the Garda; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13594/95]
Written Answers. - Garda Síochána Gender Breakdown.
The gender breakdown in all ranks of the Garda Síochána on 28 September 1995 was as set out in the following tabular statement:
|
Rank |
Male |
Female |
|
Commissioner |
1 |
0 |
|
Deputy Commissioner |
2 |
0 |
|
Assistant Commissioner |
6 |
0 |
|
Chief Superintendent |
42 |
0 |
|
Superintendent |
160 |
1 |
|
Inspector |
244 |
5 |
|
Sergeant |
1,812 |
49 |
|
Gardaí |
7,756 |
709 |
|
Total |
10,023 |
764 |
In attempting to assess the significance of these figures, it is necessary to look at historical as well as other factors. Prior to 1989, women did not compete on equal terms with men to join the Garda Síochána. However, at present, approximately one in every five applicants invited for interview for entry to the Garda Síochána is a woman. I am unable to say at this stage what the ratio of successful male candidates to female candidates joining the Garda Síochána is, as the current recruitment campaign is still in progress. However, I can say that approximately one in every four candidates successful at the interview stage of the 1991 competition was a woman.
The effects of the marriage bar, which applied to the Garda Síochána, as it did in the Civil Service generally, up to 1973, has severely impacted on the overall number of women in the Force, especially in the supervisory ranks. There are now equal opportunities for advancement within the Garda Síochána and I hope to see women rising through the ranks in a significant way in the future.
In the context of likely future developments in this regard, it is important to say that the Garda Síochána is an equal opportunities employer. It is committed to and supports equality of opportunity in employment and in promotion opportunities regardless of gender, creed, colour or marital status.
The Garda Síochána, in addition to requiring compliance with specific legislation which makes discrimination illegal, takes all necessary steps to promote fairness and equal treatment. All procedures and practices in this area continue to be monitored and reviewed by the Garda authorities.