Michael McGrath (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail)
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232. To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality if new recruits in relation to Garda recruitment are still being drawn from those that applied in 2016; when persons that applied in 2017 and that have completed all stages in the process will be contacted with a formal offer of employment; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26250/18]

Charles Flanagan (Laois, Fine Gael)
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As the Deputy will be aware, the recruitment process for An Garda Síochána is governed by the Garda Síochána (Admissions and Appointments) Regulations 2013. The Public Appointments Service (PAS), on behalf of the Garda Commissioner, manages the initial stages of the process with the final stages, involving a physical competency test, a medical examination and vetting of candidates, being managed by the Garda Commissioner. As Minister, I have no direct involvement in the matter.

I am informed by the Commissioner that the time frame for completing the final stages can vary due to a number factors. These include the length of the vetting process which may, for example, be more time consuming if the applicant has resided abroad; whether the applicant has to repeat the physical; or is deferred for medical reasons. Positions in the Garda College are only offered when all stages of the application process are completed and in accordance with an applicant’s place on the Order of Merit.

As the Deputy will be aware 800 new recruits will enter the Garda College this year. So far some 400 have done so in two in-takes.  Two further in-takes are planned for July and October.

I am informed by the Commissioner that some successful candidates are still being called from the 2016 competitions. I am further informed that 75 successful candidates from the 2017 competition have already entered the College this year.  It is anticipated that further candidates from the 2017 competition will enter the College in the remaining in-takes for this year subject to candidates successfully completing the final stages of the process as outlined above. 

The Deputy may wish to note that all applicants remain on the panel until such time as they are offered a place in the Garda College with the exception of those who are deemed unsuitable, fail the Medical or Physical Competence Test (PCT) or withdraw from the competition.

I would advise any candidate for a position as a Garda trainee to contact the PAS or the Garda Appointments Office if they have any queries in relation to their application.