Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 7 May 2026
394. Deputy Emer Currie asked the Minister for Justice, Home Affairs and Migration the number of expected attestations of new Gardaí in 2026; the date for each of them; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33892/26]
View answerGetting more Gardaí on our streets is my first priority as Minister. This Government is committed to ensuring that An Garda Síochána has the resources it needs, with Budget 2026 providing unprecedented funding of over €2.74 billion.
The second of four intakes planned for 2026 entered the Garda training College on Monday 4 May. Intake 262 saw 201 recruits enter Templemore, making it the fourth intake in a row with 200 or more recruits entering the college. The dates of future intakes will coincide with the attestation of intakes that are currently undergoing training.
The following data for intakes to the college which will result in attestations across 2026 has been provided to me by Garda authorities:
|
|
Intake Date |
Intake Number |
Attestation Date |
Attestation number |
|
Intake 252 |
09-Jun-25 |
170 |
6 Feb 2026 |
167 |
|
Intake 253 |
25-Aug-25 |
200 |
1 May 2026 |
193 |
|
Intake 254 |
17-Nov-25 |
223 |
24 Jul 2026 |
TBC |
|
Intake 261 |
09-Feb-26 |
215 |
16 Oct 26 |
TBC |
|
Intake 262 |
04-May-26 |
201 |
TBC |
TBC |
There are many circumstances under which a Garda trainee may not complete training with their initial intake including, but not limited to, reversion to another intake due to injury/medical issues, maternity leave or academic suspension.
The Deputy will also be aware that like in any other career, an individual may choose to leave the training program if they decide it is not right for them, however, the numbers who do not complete training are low.
