Eric Byrne (Dublin South Central, Labour)
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131. To ask the Minister for Justice and Equality the options the Garda Reserve and full-time Garda recruits training in Templemore have in swearing allegiance to the State; if they may affirm; if they must use the Bible; the position in relation to non-Christian and non-religious members of the force; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18122/14]

Alan Shatter (Dublin South, Fine Gael)
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Section 16(1) of the Garda Síochána Act 2005 provides for the making of a sworn declaration by each member of An Garda Síochána. Section 16(2) provides that the words "before God" may be omitted from the declaration at the request of the declarant and in such a case the Bible is not used (it is understood that a copy of the Irish Constitution is used in such a case). Section 16 is quoted below for ease of reference.

"(1) On being appointed, each member of the Garda Síochána shall make before a Peace Commissioner a declaration in the following form:

“I hereby solemnly and sincerely declare before God that -

- I will faithfully discharge the duties of a member of the Garda Síochána with fairness, integrity, regard for human rights, diligence and impartiality, upholding the Constitution and the laws and according equal respect to all people,

- while I continue to be a member, I will to the best of my skill and knowledge discharge all my duties according to law, and

- I do not belong to, and will not while I remain a member form, belong to or subscribe to, any political party or secret society whatsoever.”.

(2) The words “before God” may be omitted from the declaration at the request of the declarant."