Garda recruitment competition almost closed as people urged to apply as soon as possible

An Garda Síochána will close their recruitment competition at 3 o'clock this Thursday, 27 February as people across the country are reminded to apply as soon as possible if they are interested. 

With the aim of increasing the number of gardaí dramatically over the next five years, a range of efforts have been made to make the job more attractive to new recruits such as removing previous barriers for applicants such as age limitations. 

The maximum age of entry for new garda recruits now stands at 50, which is a major increase from the previous limit of 35. The mandatory retirement age has also been increased to 62. 

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This increase in the maximum age of entry saw a huge impact on recruitment levels in last year's campaign. Of the 6,400 applications received in 2024, one third of these were from the 35-49 age group which was the first time those of that age could apply. 

The allowance for trainee gardaí has also increased to €354 a week during the 36 week training period. 

If successful, garda trainees will graduate with a Level 7 Bachelor of Arts degree in Applied Policing which is accredited by the University of Limerick. 

Once training is completed, the new Gardaí then start on a salary of €37,311 which rises incrementally. There is also opportunities for additional allowances and paid overtime.