Dwindling Garda Reserve numbers to be debated in the Seanad

The dwindling numbers of the Garda Reserves will be debated in the Seanad Éireann next month.

Senator Michael McDowell said he will raise the matter in the Seanad every week as the Government continues to “show no signs of interest in the Reserve.”

“The Garda Reserve brings out the best in people but its members of the have been cast to one side, belittled and marginalised,” he said.

Senator McDowell called on the Minister for Justice and An Garda Síochána to commence a comprehensive recruitment campaign without delay.

“Recruitment has not happened.

“We cannot allow our Garda Reservists’ spirit of volunteerism to be deliberately neglected, indeed a recruitment campaign should serve to invigorate its existing and future membership,” he said.