Increase in non 'White Irish' garda applications welcomed 

Among the main minorities, there was a significant rise among Asian or Asian Irish, accounting for almost 5% of applications, up from 3.5% in 2022, with an increase among Black and Black Irish from 1.4% two years ago to 2% this year.

The percentage of people describing themselves as “White Irish” in applications to be a garda has dropped from 88% just five years ago to 73% this year, official figures show.

The data from the Public Appointments Service has been welcomed by immigrant groups and religious minority leaders, who stress the need for An Garda Síochána to be more representative of society and expressed hope that the numbers are reflected in the profile of those accepted into the Garda College.