How are Gardaí managing investigations according to the Policing Authority?

The Policing Authority stated that Gardaí are managing complex and serious investigations while "relying primarily on manual spreadsheets or paper-based systems".

Home / Crime and Justice / Garda Recruitment Woes Jeopardize Staffing Targets, Policing Authority Warns

Garda Recruitment Woes Jeopardize Staffing Targets, Policing Authority Warns

Q: What is the Policing Authority's warning about Garda recruitment?

The Policing Authority has warned that it is "highly unlikely" the government's pledge to recruit at least 5,000 new Gardaí by 2029 will be met.

Q: What issue did the Policing Authority raise about Garda budgets?

The Policing Authority flagged "structural weaknesses" in the Garda's budgeting arrangements, with annual overtime budgets consistently falling short of actual expenditure.

6 Aug

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Summary

Garda recruitment unlikely to meet 5,000 target by 2029
Policing Authority cites "reliance on manual systems" for investigations
Overtime budgets "insufficient" to run the organization

Garda Recruitment Woes Jeopardize Staffing Targets, Policing Authority Warns

In a letter sent to the Minister for Justice in March 2025, the Policing Authority has delivered a stark warning about the future of Garda staffing levels. The authority's chairwoman, Elaine Byrne, informed the minister that it is "highly unlikely" the government's pledge to recruit at least 5,000 new Gardaí by 2029 will be met.

The letter, released under Freedom of Information, outlines several pressing issues facing the Garda Síochána. Byrne noted that with retirements projected to "significantly increase" in the coming decade, the recruitment pipeline may not be sufficient to offset natural attrition and meet current or increased demand.

The Policing Authority also raised concerns about the force's reliance on outdated technology, stating that Gardaí are managing complex investigations while "relying primarily on manual spreadsheets or paper-based systems." Byrne emphasized the "pressing need" for continued investment in modern technology to support the organization's operations.

Additionally, the letter flagged "structural weaknesses" in the Garda's budgeting arrangements, with annual overtime budgets consistently falling short of actual expenditure. Byrne stated that the 2025 overtime budget of €150 million was "insufficient to run the organisation," with the actual bill reaching €200 million the previous year.

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