GRA President issues warning as recruitment age increases

The Donegal-based President of the GRA is warning that the lowest point of the salary scale facing new garda recruits stop many from applying to the force. People up to the age of 50 can apply to join An Garda Siochána from today. A new Garda recruitment competition is open until the 8th of February, with the age limit rising from 35. As of December, there were just under 14,000 Gardaí serving in the force - with the Government aiming for a target of 15,000. Brendan O'Connor, says new applicants will start at the lowest point of the salary scale, which he believes will discourage many.