An Garda Síochána
Dail Éireann — 2026-03-19
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Jim O'Callaghan (FF), Dublin Bay South

Overtime is always an integral part of the service provided by An Garda Síochána. Every year, there are major events that have to be policed. I have spoken extensively to the Commissioner about the commitments arising from the EU Presidency and the Ireland-Israel soccer match. Whatever happens, the Commissioner has informed me that there will be resources available to police these events.
We want to get as many people as we can into An Garda Síochána. A number of significant changes made in recent times have had a really positive impact. I refer, in particular, to changing the recruitment cut-off age from 35 years to 50. We are now seeing people who are in their 40s and in sedentary careers wanting the excitement of a career in An Garda Síochána. These individuals are joining the force. Also, increasing the mandatory retirement age to 62 has had a very positive impact. I have a very good relationship with all of the associations. They are very co-operative. Like me and, I presume, the Deputy, they want to see what is best for An Garda Síochána and the Irish public.

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Record URI: https://data.oireachtas.ie/akn/ie/debateRecord/dail/2026-03-19/debate/main
Retrieved: 2026-08-14T04:54:45+00:00
Sitting date: 2026-03-19