Written answers

Thursday, 29 November 2018

Department of Justice and Equality

Garda Data

Photo of Bernard DurkanBernard Durkan (Kildare North, Fine Gael)
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120. To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality the number of women in An Garda Síochána; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [50020/18]

Photo of Charles FlanaganCharles Flanagan (Laois, Fine Gael)
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I have been informed by the Garda Commissioner that the total number of women in all ranks of An Garda Síochána as of the 31 October 2018, the latest date for which figures are readily available, was 3,720 or 27% of the total strength. This compares favourably with the number on 31 December 2008 which was approximately 3,100 or 22% of the total strength. While this is broadly in line with other police services in England and Wales, there is clearly plenty of scope for improvement.

The Garda Authorities have assured me that a concerted effort is being made to encourage women to consider a career in An Garda Síochána so that the membership of An Garda Síochána will reflect the community that it serves.

The Commission on the Future of Policing in Ireland (CoFPI) in the course of its work held semi-structured focus group discussions with female Garda members to explore the experiences of female Garda personnel regarding their careers, training and development and future prospects. Among the recommendations made in the CoFPI report is the reform of the current roster and greater flexibility of work practices which would enhance the attractiveness and job satisfaction of a career in An Garda Síochána.

The Government noted this Report on publication and my Department is currently consulting widely on the issues raised including with the Garda Commissioner in advance of me returning to Government in December with my views on the recommendations and a High Level Implementation Plan.

For the Deputy's information I have set out below in tabular form the number of women by rank and as a percentage of the total by rank as of 31 October 2018.

TotalFemaleFemale as % of Total
Commissioner100%
Deputy Commissioner100%
Assistant Commissioner9222%
Chief Superintendent46715%
Superintendent1661710%
Inspector2363414%
Sergeant198839020%
Garda11429327029%
Total13876372027%

*As of 31 October 2018

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