Reserve recruits hugely important, says McDowell

THE new Garda Reserve will bring a wealth of experience and expertise from various walks of life to An Garda Síochána, Justice Minister Michael McDowell said yesterday.

He was speaking as the first 36 members of the new force graduated from Templemore Garda College.

More than 7,000 people have applied to join the reserve force.

The new members have been undergoing intensive weekend courses at Templemore since September.

The second batch of reserve recruits will commence studies and training next month.

Mr McDowell said the establishment of the reserve marked the commencement of a new chapter in policing in Ireland.

He said: “The Reserve will enhance An Garda Síochána as it has enhanced police forces in Britain and beyond. It will also strengthen links with local communities and will be a source of local support and knowledge.”

The minister praised the dedication, energy and enthusiasm displayed by the new reserve members.

He told the graduates: “You have committed long hours to your training and have had to sacrifice time with your family and friends who should be extremely proud of your achievement and your willingness to volunteer your time to serve in your communities.”

The minister said policing in Ireland was entering a new era, with An Garda Siochána undergoing huge reform.

“Building on its proud tradition, the force is transforming into a modern, fully accountable and transparent professional police service. I firmly believe that the participation of the new reserve in this organisation will be immensely rewarding to you and to all who work with you,” he said.

Mr McDowell said he was pleased all the representative bodies in the garda had accepted the reserve as part of the future make-up of policing.

“The reserve has a hugely important function,” the minister insisted.

He said, like others, gardaí commute long distances to work and it was a huge improvement to have a locally based reserve in communities to support the gardaí.