Mr. Martin Callinan:

There are two different issues, to be fair. When a challenge was being brought to the courts to extend the age limit in what was, admittedly, a different time, I was asked to provide evidence because the advice was that someone at a very senior level needed to give it. I was a deputy commissioner at the time. I did not say in evidence at the time that it was my earnest belief - this is all a matter of record and is on the transcript - that 60 years of age was the not appropriate age, rather I said there had to be an age in order to provide for movement within the ranks.

I also thought promotion was a strong motivational factor. It has been the case that those who have recently held the post of Garda Commissioner have been given an extension of service. Regardless of what is the appropriate age, there must be a set age limit for retirement in order that the two principles of creating motivation and opportunity will be catered for.