Heather Humphreys (Cavan-Monaghan, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I agree absolutely with Deputy Calleary. We need to be proactive and look at things through the lens of a modern world, where we are all living longer and are much healthier, thank God. My Department is currently carrying out a review of the mandatory maximum retirement age of 60 for the Garda Síochána. This review is taking account of retirement ages that apply generally across the public service and that apply in other uniform services, such as the Defence Forces and the Prison Service, the physical nature of the role and the need for An Garda Síochána to maintain operational capacity at all times.

The review is also undertaking detailed analysis of compulsory retirement ages in other policing organisations at an international level. In both the UK and Northern Ireland, for example, the compulsory retirement age for the ranks equivalent to superintendent and above is 65 years of age compared to 60 years for An Garda Síochána, whereas lower retirement ages apply for lower ranks.

There is a bit of work to be done on this but it will continue over the coming months and the review will be completed in the latter half of this year. If required, legislative changes will be brought forward at that time. It is, therefore, something we should progress.

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