John Deasy (Waterford, Fine Gael)
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Question 185: To ask the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform his views on offering retired members of the Garda Síochána a back-to-work scheme on a part-time basis; his further views on a general scheme for those members who may be considering retirement; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [9751/06]

Michael McDowell (Dublin South East, Progressive Democrats)
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The position on Garda retirements is that members of the force who joined before April 2004 can retire on full pension after 30 years service, provided they are aged 50 or over. Members at the rank of Garda, sergeant and inspector must retire by the age of 57, while members at superintendent rank and higher can remain in the force up to the age of 60. Members who joined after April 2004, following the enactment of the Public Service Superannuation (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 2004 may not retire on full pension until age 55 and must retire by age 60.

Naturally, it is a disappointment to me that some members choose to leave at a time when they have perhaps further energy and expertise to contribute to the force. I would encourage every member to stay for as long as that member feels he or she has a positive contribution to make. However, it is a matter for each individual member to make his or her own decision, taking account of all relevant considerations, as to when he or she wants to retire from the Garda Síochána, as in any profession.

I believe, however, that the Garda reserve, which will be established this year, will offer an opportunity to retired members of the force to continue to make a contribution to the community and to enhance the capacity of the Garda Síochána to serve the public.