Recruitment as a Garda trainee is governed by the Garda Síochána (Admissions and Appointments) Regulations, 1988 as amended. Recruitment as a Garda Reserve trainee is governed by the Garda Síochána (Reserve Members) Regulations, 2006.
The recruitment of Garda trainees and Garda Reserve trainees, is a matter for the Public Appointments Service (PAS) and the Commissioner of An Garda Síochána. The closing date for the recent Garda trainee competition was 19th September, 2006. Applications for Reserve members continue to be accepted by the PAS, both by internet and phone.
In addition, Regulation 14 of the Garda Síochána (Admissions and Appointments) Regulations, 1988, as amended, allows the Commissioner, without regard to the normal entry requirements, to appoint persons with special aptitudes, knowledge, skills or technical qualifications.