A look into the recruitment process, training and educational opportunities for aspiring Gardaí
An Garda Síochána is calling on aspiring recruits to consider a career in law enforcement, with a recruitment competition open until February 27, 2025. To gain insight into the journey of becoming a Guard, we sat down with four members from Henry Street Garda Station to discuss their experiences, the training process, and the role of education in their careers.
The recruitment process
The recruitment process begins with a 36-week training programme divided into three 12-week phases. The first phase takes place at the Garda College in Templemore, where recruits receive foundational training. Following this, they spend 12 weeks at a designated training station, gaining hands-on experience in real-world policing. The final phase brings them back to Templemore for further instruction before they are fully integrated into their respective stations. During training, recruits receive a weekly grant of €354, along with accommodation and catering.
“After your placement period, then you can seek different opportunities within the divisions that you’re in,” explains Superintendent Andrew Lacey.
Furthering studies within the force
Education plays a significant role within An Garda Síochána, with increasing numbers of applicants holding third-level qualifications before joining the force. The organisation also encourages lifelong learning, offering members opportunities to further their education throughout their careers. The University of Limerick, in particular, collaborates with the Garda College to provide academic accreditation for training programmes and continued professional development.
The Garda members we spoke with each followed unique academic paths before and after joining the force.
Different ways into the force and back into the university
Sergeant Natasha Walsh initially worked as a personal trainer before entering Templemore in 2006. She later pursued degrees in Public Management and Criminology and is currently undertaking PhD research at UL on policing attitudes towards victims of domestic abuse.
“I think it was the different type of work that kind of motivated me more than anything knowing that you didn’t know what each day was going to bring,” she shares.
“I previously, actually, applied (…) but it was not successful,” Garda Shane Burke shares about his first interaction with the Garda. The Limerick native, transitioned from a 15-year career in early childhood education to policing. Since joining in 2022, he has completed a BA in Applied Policing and is now furthering his studies in Policing and Human Rights Law. He mentions that he received “a lot of support” in his educational journey after joining the force.
Sergeant Cathal O’Sullivan, who has been with An Garda Síochána since 2004, initially studied Business Studies and Tourism. Over the years, he obtained an undergraduate law degree and a Master of Laws in Human Rights and Criminal Justice, both from UL. “I, myself was encouraged by An Garda Síochána to return to education,” Sergeant O’Sullivan points out. He currently serves as the Community Policing Sergeant for Limerick City South. “For me being a guard is helping people,” he mentions.
Superintendent Andrew Lacey, who joined the force in 2001, had originally pursued a BA in Insurance and European Studies at UL. Over his career, he has earned multiple degrees, including a Master’s in Criminal Law and a PhD from UL. “I wouldn’t be there if it wasn’t for my mother who convinced me to go and do the Síochána test, which I didn’t want to do in Dublin at the time,” he remembers. His academic background has allowed him to lecture in Criminal Procedure at the university while continuing his work in An Garda Síochána. “It’s been over twenty-five years, a bit of, a great, really enjoyable career,” Superintended Lacey states.
Updated Physical Competency Test
An updated Physical Competency Test has been introduced, ensuring that all recruits meet the operational demands of policing. The test includes a 20-metre multi-stage fitness test (beep test) followed by an obstacle course, which must be completed within 8 minutes and 4 seconds. These changes standardise the requirements for all applicants, regardless of age or gender.