Denis Naughten (Roscommon-South Leitrim, Fine Gael)
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Question 719: To ask the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the reason Further Education and Training Awards Council qualifications equivalent to the leaving certificate are not recognised for garda and prison officer recruitment competitions; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33920/09]

Dermot Ahern (Louth, Fianna Fail)
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I have been informed by the Garda Commissioner that admission to the Garda Síochána is governed by the Admissions and Appointments Regulations 2004, which set out the educational qualifications and alternatives, for admission as a Garda trainee. Entrance to the Irish Prison Service is governed by administrative rules. Further Education and Training Awards Council qualifications equivalent to the leaving certificate may be acceptable to the Public Appointments Service, in relation to Garda and Prison Service recruitment, provided that they are of a standard not lower than those already specified. The National Qualification Authority of Ireland is the sole authority in the area of validating alternative qualifications. It advises the Public Appointments Service, which acts as agents for the Commissioner and the Irish Prison Service in the recruitment process.