Vol. 570 No. 2
479 Mr. Deasy asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the plans he has to increase the age limit for entrance to the Garda Síochána from the present limit of 26 years of age; the age limits applied for recruitment to the national police force in other EU countries; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18364/03]
The Garda Síochána (Admissions and Appointments) Regulations 1988, as amended, govern entry to the Garda Síochána and provide that applicants generally must be at least 18 and under 26 years on the first day of the month that the competition is advertised – the regulations provide for some extension to the upper age limit for applicants with certain specified service in the Defence Forces.
Section 37 of the Employment Equality Act 1998 provides, inter alia, that those parts of the Act relating to discrimination on the age ground do not apply to employment in the Garda Síochána.
On 27 November 2000 Council Directive 2000/78/EC was adopted establishing a general framework for equal treatment in employment and occupation. The implementation of the directive will have implications for the age provision of the Employment Equality Act 1998. The Government has approved the drafting of legislation to amend the Employment Equality Act 1998 and the Equal Status Act 2000 to give effect to three EU equality directives including Directive 2000/78/EC. Any implications for admission to the Garda Síochána will be considered in that context.
My objective is to have a fit, active and experienced force with an appropriate balance as regards the age profile.
The Deputy also sought information on the age limits applied for recruitment to the national police force in other EU countries. The information sought is not readily available but I am having inquiries made and I shall be in touch with the Deputy in due course.
