Jim O'Callaghan (Dublin Bay South, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

That is a valid point. There was some feedback from departure interviews as to why gardaí were leaving. My recollection is that 47% or 48% just got a better offer in the private sector. Regarding the Commissioner's figure of 18,000, we need to take into account that there are many civilians working within An Garda Síochána. They are not gardaí but they do work that was done by members of the force previously. We have approximately 3,500 civilians within the force at present and approximately 14,200 gardaí. Collectively, along with reserves numbering around 300, we will get up to 18,000. It is a demanding challenge to get more people to join. All I can do, and all Members can do, is try to encourage people to join. It is a very fulfilling and exiting job. It is different to most jobs that people get to do. We live in a society where many jobs are very sedentary in nature. Being a garda is an exciting, active job. I encourage people to consider it.

See this speech in context