An Garda Síochána has today launched a recruitment competition for potential Garda trainees, with 800 new recruits expected this year.
They are hoping to attract candidates from across society and with a wide-variety of skills.
There were 14,539 members of the force in January and the Government has committed to increase this by 800 people in 2022.
The competition launched today is being supported by an advertising campaign under the slogan of ‘The Difference is You’.
The campaign will feature Garda members in a number of situations where everyday skills can be transferred into policing. It will run across radio, TV, and social media from today.
“For 100 years, An Garda Síochána has been keeping the people of Ireland safe and as we begin marking our organisation’s centenary this week it is particularly fitting for us to be able open up recruitment,” Garda Commissioner, Drew Harris said.
“Ireland is changing, and is more diverse and multi-cultural than ever before. We want our police service to fully reflect this important progress and to represent all the communities that we proudly serve.
“That is why our recruitment drive is focused on encouraging those who may not have previously considered training to become a Garda.”
Commissioner Harris said that they are very keen to break down some of the barriers that may have been deterring people of every ethnicity, minority background, religious identity or none from applying to become a Garda.
“In previous recruitment campaigns, proficiency in two languages was required. For this campaign, proficiency will only be required in one language – which can be English or Irish.”
He said that there will be a significant focus in the recruitment campaign in reaching out to groups and individuals from communities across Ireland to encourage them to join An Garda Síochána.
“We know we have a lot of work to do in this area. An Garda Síochána has long attracted highly capable people to pursue a role in policing, who steadily build up a highly rewarding career in the organisation at various levels,” he added.
“Becoming a Garda is a chance to make a real difference in communities. We want people from all backgrounds to join us and make that difference.
“I am encouraging all those with excellent interpersonal skills or a unique skillset, a strong sense of community and those who are enthusiastic about making a real difference to people’s quality of life, to apply before 3pm Wednesday, March 16 2022 because the difference is you.”
