Plans to give Garda recruits full police powers after 32 weeks

JUSTICE Minister Dermot Ahern has launched a report on a new training regime for Garda recruits which will see them attain full police powers after 32 weeks’ training, replacing the current 58-week period.

The plans were revealed at Templemore Garda College yesterday as 94 new members joined the Garda Reserve, bringing their numbers to 565.

The plans also propose that training of civilian staff be integrated into the general training structure for gardaí.