Paul Kehoe (Wexford, Fine Gael)
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Question 706: To ask the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform his plans to change the retirement age for Garda sergeants; the options he is considering; his views on changing same for other ranks; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15051/06]

Michael McDowell (Dublin South East, Progressive Democrats)
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The current position is that members of ranks in the Garda Síochána up to and including inspector,who were recruited to the force prior to 1 April 2004, must retire at 57 years of age. Members recruited after that date may serve until 60, subject to an annual check after the age of 55 on fitness to serve.

In the context of the establishment of a Garda reserve, I have said that I see merit in considering an increase in the retirement age of pre-2004 members of garda, sergeant and inspector ranks from 57 to 60 to facilitate the supervision and mentoring of reserve members by members of those ranks. I will discuss this with the Commissioner as part of the wider preparations for the establishment of the reserve.