Garda Commissioner welcomes first Garda recruitment competition with increased age limit

The latest Garda recruitment competition has opened today and will run until 15.00 on February 8.

The competition will be operated by the Public Appointments Service on behalf of An Garda Síochána.

Candidates can apply at www.publicjobs.ie

Following a Government decision, the age limit to apply to become a Garda trainee has increased from 35 years to 50 from this competition onwards.

In order to provide a steady pipeline of Garda trainees over the coming years, it is intended that Garda recruitment campaigns will run annually.

Commissioner Harris has commented previously on the need to not only meet the Government target of 15,000 Gardaí, but increase Garda numbers even further due to population growth and changing nature of crime.

There are currently 13,998 Gardaí (as of 31 December 2023).

Speaking today, Commissioner Drew Harris said: “Being a Garda is a hugely rewarding but at times tough job.

“As a Garda you will make a real difference in people’s lives. You will effect positive change in communities.

“You will keep people safe. You will support victims. You will uphold the law.

“And, through this valued and exciting work you will see first-hand the impact your actions have on the ground. This is why being a Garda is a job worth doing.

“Every day, Gardaí keep communities and people safe through our unique approach to policing by consent. It is this approach coupled with a host of career opportunities that has attracted people to become Gardaí.

“We have even had those who were police officers in other jurisdictions return to retrain as a Garda.

“Policing in an ever changing modern and diverse society presents challenges, but equally it affords us opportunities to grow, learn and adapt.

“This is why An Garda Síochána recognises it too needs to change to meet the needs and demands of the people of Ireland.

“Already, we have one of the highest proportion rates of female officers in Europe, but we know there is more to do to meet our aim of being fully representative of the people we serve.

“That is why we are hoping to attract more candidates from diverse backgrounds as part of this campaign.

“We want, and need, people from all backgrounds and communities to be Gardaí.

“This campaign also sees the age limit increased to 50 years.

“This provides people who may now want to be Gardaí but thought the opportunity had passed or who are considering a change a career to join An Garda Síochána and make a real and lasting contribution to society.

“So, if you are looking for a career in service to the citizens of Ireland, which offers something new day after day, with career progression opportunities, and scope to diversify and specialise in a variety of areas of policing, then we want to hear from you.”