Brian Hayes (Dublin South West, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

The Senator made a helpful suggestion. There is a process under way to examine the amended regulations and I understand that the working group is due to submit its report in the near future. It is important and opportune that the Senator raised the matter. I hope that the question of limitation of age would be part and parcel of the work of the working group.

As the Senator mentioned, there are special circumstances, from time to time, where an individual might apply to be a member of the Garda Síochána. There should be some flexibility in that regard, particularly if people can bring expertise and specialist knowledge to the force. That would be a logical outcome of what we are trying to encourage in terms of members of the Garda Síochána. I shall convey the Senator's view to the Minister for Justice and Equality and ask him to consider the matter in the context of the working group.