Cork could lose 550 gardaí by end of 2028 as numbers reaching pension age set to rise

With numbers of new recruits falling, this could become a major issue over the next few years, according to the figures

In 2026, some 109 gardaí will become eligible to retire in Cork — 50 in Cork City, 59 in Cork county. Picture Colin Keegan/ Collins

Cork is at risk of losing more than 550 gardaí before the end of 2028, as the number of members reaching retirement age is set to rise.

New figures, published by justice minister Jim O'Callaghan, show the number of gardaí eligible to retire in 2025 stands at 39 in Cork City and a further 45 in Cork county.