First new Gardaí in five years start training today – O’Donovan

Fine Gael TD for Limerick, Patrick O’Donovan, has today (Monday) congratulated the 100 garda recruits who begin their training in Templemore.

“For the first time in five years, 100 Garda recruits begin their training today in Templemore. The embargo introduced by the last Government has finally been lifted as An Garda Síochana welcome a new generation of Gardaí.

“It is very encouraging to see that against the backdrop of severe economic difficultly the embargo has been lifted as the current Government is committed to supporting the Garda force.

“Members of an Garda Síochana carry out vital work in our communities and it is essential that we ensure they can continue to operate effectively. More Gardaí are needed on the streets and today’s new recruits signify a return to growth for the force.

“The Minister for Justice, Frances Fitzgerald TD has already done excellent work in reforming the Gardaí. Investment has been made in the Garda fleet and further reform is anticipated in the form of a strengthened Garda Síochana Ombudsman Commission.

“I am sure that today’s new recruits will have a very positive effect on the entire Garda force and I wish them all the best in their training and future careers.”