Garda Recruitment Targets Unlikely to be Met: Policing Authority Warns Minister

The Policing Authority warned Minister for Justice Jim O'Callaghan that it is highly unlikely Garda numbers will hit the levels pledged by the Coalition earlier this year. With projected retirements set to increase in the coming decade, the programme for government commitment to recruit at least 5,000 gardaí by 2029 is endangered. The authority also warned of a pressing need for continued and enhanced investment in technology for the Garda.