Garda Recruitment Opens Thursday: Get Paid to Train and Graduate with University Degree

An Garda Síochána has launched its latest recruitment drive at the National Ploughing Championships, offering prospective candidates a unique opportunity to get paid during training whilst earning a Level 7 degree. The competition opens this Thursday, 18th September, and runs for just three weeks until 9th October.

The announcement comes as part of the Government's commitment to recruit at least 5,000 Gardaí over the next five years, with applications opening at publicjobs.ie on Thursday morning.

Training That Pays You Back

Unlike traditional university courses that cost thousands, Garda training offers a distinctly different approach. Trainees receive €354 per week during their 36-week programme at the Garda College in Templemore, with free accommodation and food provided from Sunday to Friday.

Upon graduation, successful candidates receive a Level 7 Bachelor of Arts Degree in Applied Policing, accredited by the University of Limerick, and step into a guaranteed public service role starting at €38,694 annually.

Minister for Justice, Home Affairs and Migration Jim O'Callaghan TD:

"As Minister my first priority is to get more Gardaí on our streets. The Programme for Government commits to recruiting at least 5,000 Gardaí in the coming five years, and the launch of a second recruitment campaign this year reflects that commitment."

The role particularly appeals to those seeking active work rather than desk-based positions, with fitness training integrated into daily duties and opportunities for overtime at time-and-a-half rates.

Diverse Workforce Sought

An Garda Síochána actively seeks candidates aged 18 to 49 from all backgrounds, with the competition open to people up to age 50. Recent statistics show the appeal spans generations: 42% of February 2025 applicants were aged 30 and over.

At the most recent attestation ceremony, 26 of the 154 new Gardaí were born outside Ireland, representing countries including Brazil, Nigeria, Poland, and Romania.

Garda Commissioner Justin Kelly:

"As an organisation we are growing, but we recognise that to meet the demands of a growing and diverse society we need to build in greater resilience. Our current strength stands at approximately 14,400 which will be further bolstered by another cohort of trainees due to graduate in November."

Real Stories from New Recruits

The campaign features inspiring stories from recent trainees, including Michael Connolly, who became the oldest recruit at 50 whilst maintaining his role as a senior FAI referee. His advice to older candidates: "Templemore is a fabulous place, your accommodation is laid on, your food is laid on... it just sets you up that you can focus on your classes."

Other recent recruits include former Ryanair cabin crew member Alex Shortt, broadcast journalist Amy Ní Riada, and television producer Kristina Courtney, who worked on programmes including Dancing with the Stars and Crimecall before joining the force.

Beyond the Basic Salary

Additional benefits include access to the Doctors of Choice GP scheme, medical aid coverage, flexible working arrangements throughout careers, and the Fast Accrual Pension Scheme. Gardaí assigned to core 12-hour shifts receive additional allowances, with overtime opportunities and access to numerous Garda societies and credit unions.

Strong Recruitment Pipeline

Since recruitment recommenced in December 2022, over 2,000 trainees have entered the Garda College, with more than 1,400 now serving as Probationer Gardaí. Over 550 recruits currently undergo training, with new classes entering every 11 to 12 weeks.

The €685,000 promotional campaign, running under the tagline "It's a Job Worth Doing," launches across online video, print, radio, and outdoor advertising from Thursday.

Applications close at 3pm on Thursday, 9th October 2025, with successful candidates expected to begin training in various 2026 recruit classes.

For Cork residents considering a career change or recent graduates seeking meaningful work, this represents an opportunity to serve the community whilst building a secure, pensionable career with genuine progression prospects.