An Garda reaches record number of sworn members
An Garda Síochána has attained its highest-ever number of sworn members with the attestation of 207 new Gardaí. This milestone reflects ongoing recruitment efforts across Ireland, enhancing frontline policing and community support nationwide.
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An Garda Síochána
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⏱️ 2 min read
An Garda Síochána has reached an unprecedented milestone, boasting the highest number of sworn Garda members in the history of the State. On 16th October 2026, 207 new Gardaí were attested, marking the largest single graduating class since before the Covid-19 pandemic. This brings the total number of sworn Gardaí to 14,825, surpassing the previous record set in March 2020.
The newly attested Gardaí, recruited through the 2024/2025 campaigns, will be deployed across various regions: 84 in Dublin, 76 in the Eastern Region, 20 in the Southern Region, and 27 in the North Western Region. Notably, 28 probationers have been assigned to the Waterford/Kilkenny Division to support enhanced High Visibility Beats in Waterford City. Consequential transfers following this attestation will result in increased Garda numbers in every division, bolstering frontline policing nationwide.
Currently, 398 Garda trainees are undergoing training at the Garda College, with the next intake of recruits scheduled to begin on 2nd November 2026. Recruitment remains robust, with over 3,000 trainees having commenced training since 2022. The comprehensive recruitment process includes multiple stages such as online assessments, interviews, physical tests, medical exams, and vetting, culminating in a 32-week Foundation Training Programme combining classroom learning and practical experience. Garda Commissioner Justin Kelly highlighted the significance of these numbers, emphasising the continued growth and commitment to serving communities across Ireland.
The newly attested Gardaí, recruited through the 2024/2025 campaigns, will be deployed across various regions: 84 in Dublin, 76 in the Eastern Region, 20 in the Southern Region, and 27 in the North Western Region. Notably, 28 probationers have been assigned to the Waterford/Kilkenny Division to support enhanced High Visibility Beats in Waterford City. Consequential transfers following this attestation will result in increased Garda numbers in every division, bolstering frontline policing nationwide.
Currently, 398 Garda trainees are undergoing training at the Garda College, with the next intake of recruits scheduled to begin on 2nd November 2026. Recruitment remains robust, with over 3,000 trainees having commenced training since 2022. The comprehensive recruitment process includes multiple stages such as online assessments, interviews, physical tests, medical exams, and vetting, culminating in a 32-week Foundation Training Programme combining classroom learning and practical experience. Garda Commissioner Justin Kelly highlighted the significance of these numbers, emphasising the continued growth and commitment to serving communities across Ireland.
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