Vol. 471 No. 7
293 Mr. N. Ahern asked the Minister for Justice if she will provide full training for Regulation 14 gardaí in the telecommunications section in view of the fact that they are occasionally required to assist with normal Garda work and that training would improve their flexibility and availability. [22216/96]
294 Mr. M. McDowell asked the Minister for Justice if her attention has been drawn to the fact that Regulation 14 gardaí are given no training but are, nonetheless, required to discharge some functions from time to time as members of the Garda Síochána; whether she proposes to give them any basic training on their statutory duties as members of the Garda Síochána; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [22223/96]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 293 and 294 together.
Regulation 14 of the Garda Síochána (Admissions and Appointments) Regulations 1988 provides for the recruitment of persons having special technical qualifications to the force. Members recruited under this provision do not have to fulfil all of the admission criteria required of members who are appointed to the regular uniform force.
The Commissioner is satisfied that the level of training currently given to persons recruited under Regulation 14 for their technical qualification is sufficient to equip them to carry out their duties. However, the question of training for all personnel is under constant review and additional training is arranged for individuals and groups as necessary.
