More than 6,700 apply to join the gardaí in latest recruitment drive

Some 32% of those who applied were women and 42% were either aged 30 or over. Additionally, 23% of those who applied were of a non-white Irish background. 

More 6,700 people have applied to become part of the Garda force as part of the latest recruitment competition.

Some 32% of those who applied were women, and 42% were either aged 30 or over. Additionally, 23% of those who applied were of a non-White Irish background.

The €375,000 promotional campaign went live across television and national and local media under the tagline "It's a Job Worth Doing" for three weeks.

Applicants are now expected to enter into a "competitive selection process," which includes several stages.

Stage one will involve online verbal and numerical reasoning tests, an assessment questionnaire, and a written exercise.

Stage two will require applicants to take part in a competency-based interview.

Finally, stage three will include a fitness test, medical and drug testing, and Garda vetting.

Gardaí say they expect the first successful candidates from the competition to begin at Garda College in Templemore at the end of the year.

Garda commissioner Drew Harris said they were "really pleased with the level of interest in joining An Garda Síochána, particularly in the current market."

"Applicants are from a diverse range of backgrounds, and this will ultimately ensure An Garda Síochána represents the population it is serving," he said.

"An Garda Síochána is a very rewarding career, and the number of applications confirms what we’ve been saying throughout the campaign — it’s a job worth doing. We are looking forward to welcoming our new Garda trainees on board and supporting them in their career to keep people safe," Mr. Harris added.