______________________________________________
For Oral Answer on : 12/12/2023
Question Number(s): 75 Question Reference(s): 54722/23
Department: Justice
Asked by: David Stanton T.D.
______________________________________________
QUESTION
To ask the Minister for Justice further to Parliamentary Question No. 29 of 25 May 2023, to provide an update on the recruitment campaign for the Garda Reserve; when she expects new reservists to be appointed; and if she will make a statement on the matter.
REPLY
I would like to acknowledge the important contribution made by all members of the Reserve who volunteer their time for the community’s benefit.
The Garda Reserve represents a real opportunity for anyone wishing to support policing and give something back to their communities. The Reserve reinforces An Garda Síochána’s essential community links, and provides the capacity to draw on additional resources to assist in policing. The Reserve also provides an opportunity for individuals who may be interested in joining An Garda Síochána to experience the work of the Gardaí before deciding if it is the career they wish to pursue.
I will be seeking Government approval for revised Garda Reserve Regulations shortly.
The Garda Commissioner has confirmed that he will undertake a Garda Reserve competition in quarter 1 of 2024.
In preparation for a Garda Reserve recruitment campaign, and throughout 2022 and 2023, An Garda Síochána have been actively engaging with the Department of Justice and the Public Appointments Service with a view to ensuring that a recruitment campaign is inclusive to attract diverse and underrepresented groups.
