Garda Recruitment (Archived)

FGR

I couldn't get that second form back until Monday anyway! The Super Intendant was fine about it once he had it in his hands on Monday morning.

Quite a relief, really.

8bi1ctzegfouva

hey lilolil, thanks for your email.

FGR

That's form number 2 filled out. Better be the last one.

After speaking with a number of Gardai just out of Templemore and those teaching in the Garda School in Cork I'm feeling a little more confident.

The guys down at the local station couldn't believe I came in the top 1%. It was like a reception down there.

8bi1ctzegfouva

garda school in cork? never heard of that. what goes on there?
and why are you feeling more confident after speaking to them?

FGR

They gave me advice about the interviews and the processes involved.

If you're in there longer than 30 minutes you're 'in', apparently.

The School in Cork is for continued training of Gardai. What they've told me is that it's getting an extension as well because of the OnGoing training being moved out of Templemore as it's solely focusing on trainees.

8bi1ctzegfouva

ok cool.
you learn something new everyday.
re the 30 minutes. i would take that with a pinch of salt.
i have asked two people who actually do the interviews, and they have said that the whole timing issue has nothing to do with how well you get on. you could be in the for 45 mins, and they might let it run that long because they are interested in what you are saying, or because they are seeing if you have anything interesting to say at all ( if you get what i mean)

FGR

I've been introduced to the tested-last-year stab vest that various Gardai were trying out.

They weren't happy as it was not only heavier than the PSNI version but it also lacked bullet proofing features.

It was quite heavy, I can tell you that. Running after someone who's wearing nothing but a pair of jeans and runners makes me reckon that you wouldn't be too successful.

The superintendent was quite helpful too. Didn't know that soldiers must salute a Garda at Superintendent rank or above..

Griffen

Hi guys

Just after registering with this site, got my garda interview wed (16th march) kinda dreading it really!

Anyone got any tips??

8bi1ctzegfouva

hey griffen, your first name isn't andrew is it?
re tips, just read all the stuff they have sent you, and check out the civil service and garda websites.

Mutz

ForegoneReality wrote:

I've been introduced to the tested-last-year stab vest that various Gardai were trying out.

They weren't happy as it was not only heavier than the PSNI version but it also lacked bullet proofing features.

It was quite heavy, I can tell you that. Running after someone who's wearing nothing but a pair of jeans and runners makes me reckon that you wouldn't be too successful.

The superintendent was quite helpful too. Didn't know that soldiers must salute a Garda at Superintendent rank or above..

There's enough crap to be carrying to be honest without the stab vests. (utility belts, jackets, caps etc) When you're chasing someone, they're on adreneline and you're just knackered from walking around all day so the odds on catching someone are fairly slim.

Griffen

Cheers detective. By the way no my name is not andrew, thank god as i am female! When is your interview? You seem very confident anyways!

seammc

how you griffin

have you any tips

Griffen

Hi seammc,

Have you interview coming up?

Suppose its going to be like any other interview just a bit harder, be urself and spout the **** they want to hear!

8bi1ctzegfouva

hey griffen. sorry, just i know a guy who used to be interested in joining the gards [snipped].
i have my interview [snipped].
as for being confident, i wouldn't say i'm confident, i'm just trying to prepare myself as much as possible

foregone- the stab vest you saw, was it worn under or over the uniform? also, are they still on trial? or was it just lying around the station?

8bi1ctzegfouva

also, anyone who wants to have a laugh at the physical competency test check out http://www.garda.ie/angarda/physical_test.html .

seammc

re:Greffen,

ya , i hate interviews though.. best of luck anyway.
let me know how it gos?

FGR

Interview on a Saturday? My aren't they dedicated..

The stab vest was worn under the uniform (It was white) and from what I understand the trial ended midway during summer '04.

They would have been coming on stream with the uniform but they'll now have to test another batch of vests to see whether they're suitable.

I can't recall whether it was mentioned or not but the retractable baton has been recalled...They'll get a non faulty batch back ASAP.

I have to meet the Superintendent before the end of the week so he can make up a report on me for the interview board.

On the bus for three hours tomorrow then...

Did you lot do this? It's going to be around 15 minutes. I'd say this is to confirm that I have two arms and legs, and that I don't have a swastika tattoo'ed on my forehead.

Griffen

Saw my local Sergeant sunday week ago. Only got my form on the friday before that and he rang my mobile (where ever he got my num i do not know) the following saturday morning and told me to come down to the station and bring my family details, you'll need all your aunts and unlces dates of births, occupations, addresses. Also your siblings and mum and dad.

Bring your leaving cert results aswell, PRSI number and whoever your main reference is have a contact address. you will need two other references aswell, your local priest or school principal is fine, as long as the person is not a member of the force. You also have to fill out all ur work details so have your dates prepared.

As far as i know that really it. you'll have to tick a few questions about whether you were ever arrested before stuff like that!

i had to fill it out straight in front of the Sergeant. He told me that the reason why you have to fill it out infront of him its probably because of too many mistakes being made and to prevent any delays.

Hope that helps!

Griffen

Cheers seammc

See how it goes anyways!

seammc

whens your interview griffen

FGR

I filled out that particular form with a local Garda. They were there just to confirm my identity and double check the info I put down with the info I sent to the civil service beforehand.

This is simply an informal meeting with the Superintendent. I'm surprised that it's arisen, though he's doing it with the six people in the town who managed to make it through Stage 1.

Last I heard over 200 people in my hometown applied. Oh dear..

Griffen

My interview is next wed seamcc. Cant wait to have it over, hope i do ok though, love to get the Guards! When is urs?

i was told that if we are successful we could be down in Templemore in June/July of this year. They seem to be moving quite quick this year.

oceallachain

First off guys, congrats to all of you who passed Stage 1. And to those who didn't get it this time - better luck next time.

I applied in 2003. The last intake for the 2003 competition takes place on Tuesday May 3rd this year. This means that I doubt that the May 5th that the detective saw could be right but maybe. Check it out buddy!! I really don't think that could be right. My guess is that the earliest intake for the 2004 competition will be in August.

There are 4 intakes per year of about 275 each. Stage 2 is difficult lads. The interview will be challenging but everyone is in the same boat so chill out and remember that the most important word is community. Ask your local station for an example of how a garda there is involved int he community (eg. by organising footie tournaments.

Think about how you would answer Q's like "If you were posted to a one man station, how would you go about policing that community" and "What do you expect to study in Templemore" and "Who's the commissioner". Try not to get caught out in the Q's where answers are available on the prep. material.

The written communication last year didn't involve a video. But it was time constraining. YOU WILL NOT FINISH WITH MORE THAN 3/4 MINUTES LEFT if it's anything like last year and watch the handwriting and spelling - you're graded on everything.

As for stage 3. Well, the medical does break hearts. There's no doubt there. It has a relatively high failure rate. Eyesight is a big dilemma, one guy who passed with me was told to put on weight which may have been a joke (he was very thin). Having said this, all 10 lads who went through it with me passed. One had lasik treatment on his eyes and was open about it with the Gardai so YES LASIK IS PERMITTED IN THE GARDA, even though it's frobidden in the armed forces.

Don't knock the Physical Competency Test guys!! OK, compared to the Army it isn't in the same league and I heard rumours that no guy has ever failed but it has a relatively high failure rate among ladies. One person failed out of maybe 20/25 when I was in Templemore for my physical. Strongest pull on the day was 50kgs and the fastest run was 2m20 secs (I think). I done 40Kgs and 2m40 and I wasn't in the best of health on the day either.

If I can help anyone out then mail me at [email]EDITED[/email] - plz no messing lads. I know I'm taking a chance giving my email address on the net but I'm hoping that you're all law abiders as well as enforcers.

By the way last year I was placed 1100+, and it took about 6 month for an interview and then another 6 months for a medical but after the medical it all happens pretty fast. This year I was placed below 500 so i was happy with that. I applied again because in December I hadn't yet taken my Physical test so I wasn't guaranteed my place.

---

sorry, i dont really want private emails out and about onthe site. tis just a policy. its all good info and im sure people will have questions.
please feel free to use teh PM facility and you can exchange email address' in privacy
wwman

8bi1ctzegfouva

yeah i have to go the local super. some time this week. not sure when tho.
oceallachain - re september 5th. actually 3rd (my mistake) it could be completely wrong. but maybe some of the people going for interview will be placed in it. not sure though. i would prefer it to be august, it would mean i could travel etc. before, but we'll have to wait and see.

so, are you going for interview again? or have you been accepted into the may 3rd intake?

FGR

Blasted Double Posts. See Below.

FGR

Once I'm given a set date (soon) then I don't mind when I start.

That said I would like the opportunity to go travelling..Though it all depends on whether I make it in or not.

How much notice are you given between acceptance and starting? Or..Is it true that you'll wait at least six weeks for a response from the interview?

oceallachain

I had to wait about 4 weeks for my interview results. It took ages again to be called for the medical (like 6 months, but I doubt you guys will have to wait that long cause of your super scores - well done again guys) but when you do get called for the medical it all moves along fairly fast.

2 weeks or so after my medical I was invited to Templemore for an info day on the Physical, then about 1-2 weeks after that came the physical itself and you are told on the day if you passed. About 2 weeks after that you get your official invitation to begin training and you are asked to report to the Chief Super of Templemore Training college at a certain time/date ie. your start date.

Maybe you guys will start May 3rd I don't know but what you can take to the bank is the fact that May 3rd is the last day of intake for 2003 applicants. And because of this there will be a lot of deferrals from previous intakes.

detective I was due to start Feb 2005 (I recieved confirmation of this in the post on Christmas eve). I'm in 4th year of a 4 year degree course so I decided to defer and was told the the last opportunity to accept would be May 3rd. I was also told that I MAY have to undergo another medical which is why I may still keep up my candidature for the 2004 competition because of this (you never know I could break my leg playing GAA or anything!!). So yes, I might go for my interview again on March 21st.

However I was told a few days ago by Garda HQ staff that medicals are valid for 12 months, in which case I certainly won't need to undergo another one.

seammc

my interview is start of april Griffen..

looking forward to gettin it done. hopefully it will go ok...
anyone have info on the video being shown before interview??

oceallachain

i believe that this is the first year the video is being used, previously a booklet that resembled a comic magazine was used.

seammc

have to bring popcorn, ha ha...

Griffen

RE: Video

As far as i know from what it says on the forms, we go into the room and get instructions on what to do. the video could be of a scene of an accident or something on the same lines. Your given rough work paper to write down any information you think is relevant to the scene and then we have to write it out properly on a time limit of course.

Dont really know much about it as i think this is the first year it was introduced as it was a written test from books in previous years.

Has anyone else heard anything relevant?

oceallachain

RE Video

I don't think we will hear anything regarding this until the geniuses who scored less than 200 on Stage 1 give the rest of us idiots feedback
So detective, griffen and co. - the rest of us are waiting!!!!

Griffen

Do you know whats strange i scored 279 in my appitude and how come i have an interview before detective who scored way lower, can anyone answer that question????

oceallachain

RE Interview date allocation detective/griffen

I don't have an answer for this however I will guess that it may have something to do with people from the greater Dublin area (who have no probs with making a 9am appointment by public transport) being treated differently to people from Cork, Limerick, Galway cities and various other places (who couldn't make it at 9am - the earliest train from Limerick pulls into Heuston at 9:15 I think).
Truth is I don't have a clue though????

Griffen

Mmm ya i just think that its strange though!

Typical got my interview on the date i was supposed to fly out with my friends to Edinburgh for few days of a hoolie for Paddys. Had to reschedule my flight for the next morning. Dont mind, just hope its worth it though!

FGR

I hail from Waterford and my interview is on the 18th at 9am in Dublin. It's going to be a nightmare of a day. Up at 6am in Bray to hit the Dart into Dublin..Followed by a lovely march to Upper Abbey Street.

Now. Bear in mind I came 90th. What on Earth's going on if they're not doing it by order of number?

Cosworth

I filled in form B last week with the local sergent and had a little chat with him nothing to formal.
Asked me why i wanted to join the garda,do you think you would make a good garda? etc.

I have all my info from publicjobs.ie and i'm having a chat with a friend of mine who has just finished his first 20 weeks in templemore about the interview next week and i have my interview on the 31st so hopefully it will all go well.

Gary

NeverHappy

the detective wrote:

is your bmi(body mass index) under 25? i.e are you not overweight? i hear they are real strict about it nowadays. i am just under 25 so i should pass, but im gonna lose a bit more before i do the medical.
its a bit odd, for the psni you had to have a bmi of under 30 (above 30 you are obese) but for the gards you have to be under 25, also, there is no physical competency test for the psni.

seems like the gards have quite a strict fitness level, but you wouldnt be able to tell by some of the fat ****ers you see out there.

Is this right, if so I better start seriuos weight loss. I have a BMI of 28. I was injured over xmas and piled on the pounds. I've been back training 2 weeks, but I reckon it will take a while to loose the excess again.

Also, the sergeant told me that they are recruiting a total of 2000 and will interview 4000. He also said that there was a big rush to get the first lot done as training starts May 3rd.

I'm in the top 200 with an interview next week.
MMM might check out the old atkins diet..........
Fitness is not an issue though as before my injury I was up to 13 miles in my Marathon training. I would hate for that to stop me.

NH

NeverHappy

Ministers speech re: templemore and new recruits. Given at the turning of the sod ceremony.

http://www.justice.ie/80256E01003A02CF/vWeb/pcJUSQ68DK6Q-en


Another essential element to meet the Government commitment is the recruitment of the trainees themselves. You will be aware that the new recruitment campaign for the Garda Siochana was launched on 25th November 2004. I am delighted to note that over 10,500 applications were received before the closing date of 17 December last. This record level of interest follows my decision to extend the upper age limit to 35 years and compares very favourably with the number of applications in recent competitions - 6,800 applications in 2003, almost 4,000 in 2000 and just over 5,000 in 1999. It will allow record numbers of high quality recruits to be taken on over the next three years. Each quarter, for the next three years, around 274 recruits will be taken into the College. Accordingly, this year there will be an intake to the Garda College of 1,096 new recruits. In addition, it is estimated that 523 Garda trainees will become attested members of the force in 2005. Taking into account projected retirements, it will yield a combined organisational strength, of both attested Gardai and recruits in training, of 14,000 as early as 2006.

Griffen

Im sure if your anyways in good enough health and can run/jog a bit it the physical should be ok.

I was told the highest failure rate is the eye and ear test, big failure rate in that section. The pulling test is meant to be you have to pull weights (25 times i think), if your small its meant to be hard as you would have to reach up, whereas if your tall its at the same level as you so therefore its a bit easier.

oceallachain

RE: Physical Test
Griffen is right, it is a little tougher on shorter people.
You have to pull an average of 25 KGs over 20 seconds which is fairly handy for most fellas but some girls have a problem with this (then again, some do better than the guys - one girl pulled 39.8 when I was there!!).

RE: Medical Exam
Eyes and ears are the biggest failure points. Eyes more than ears. I know a girl who failed due to her hearing. But once again I must say - the gardai will allow you to treat these defects if they are treatable (e.g. LASIK surgery for eyes).
I'm not sure about what you BMI has to be

8bi1ctzegfouva

NeverHappy wrote:

Is this right, if so I better start seriuos weight loss. I have a BMI of 28. I was injured over xmas and piled on the pounds. I've been back training 2 weeks, but I reckon it will take a while to loose the excess again.

Also, the sergeant told me that they are recruiting a total of 2000 and will interview 4000. He also said that there was a big rush to get the first lot done as training starts May 3rd.

I'm in the top 200 with an interview next week.
MMM might check out the old atkins diet..........
Fitness is not an issue though as before my injury I was up to 13 miles in my Marathon training. I would hate for that to stop me.

NH

i was only guessing when i said that it had to be below 25, but i assume it does, as i have been told by a lot of people that they are very strict on the issue of being overweight, even if you are only a few pounds overweight i hear they will fail you. i'm not sure though. i'll ring the recruitment branch today and see if i can get an answer.

if it is the same as the psni though, it will be a bmi of 30.

i'll let you know what i find out.

Griffen

Was talkin to someone who knew a girl who was overweight and she managed to pass her medical. Said she was a big girl and managed to pass it so ya'd never know.

I know that if your BMI is over 25 you are considered overweight and if it is between 20 and 25 your ok. Not sure how it applies in the Guards though.

FGR

I was told you have to be obese not to make it. They basically won't let you in if your weight conflicts with your health and for safety reasons they couldn't really push you to limit..

That said, Super was friendly. He needed to meet the six of us ASAP as HQ Told him they want the recruits no longer than a month from now.

Lovely. Taking into account the notice given between acceptance and reporting to the Chief Superintendent I'd reckon it could be May, people.

NeverHappy

ForegoneReality wrote:

That said, Super was friendly. He needed to meet the six of us ASAP as HQ Told him they want the recruits no longer than a month from now.

Lovely. Taking into account the notice given between acceptance and reporting to the Chief Superintendent I'd reckon it could be May, people.

That could pose its own problems. I have a job that requires a months notice, as I'd say do many others.

oceallachain

NeverHappy wrote:

That could pose its own problems. I have a job that requires a months notice, as I'd say do many others.

neverHappy you can defer it once you are accepted buddy.

If people from the 2004 competition will start in May then they'll be starting with people from the 2003 competition. That said I think it's strange that they told me (in writing!!) that the last opportunity to start for me would be May 3rd, as this was the last intake for the 2003 competition. If they are mixing competitions anyway then I can't see why this would matter.

Oh well, I don't care - I just want to start as soon as possible!!

Cosworth

Did any one have their chat with the super yet?

I got a call from naas garda station today saying that it was urgent and they wanted me to chat with the local super ASAP so i am going to maynooth garda station tomorrow at 7:30,she said it is just an informal chat but does anyone know the questions they ask?

Regards
Gary.

8bi1ctzegfouva

rang the garda appointments office today.

was given slightly conflicting answers.

i was told in under no circumstances could you have a BMI of over 25. he said you fail instantly if that is the case, and that once you fail it, that's it, you cannot come back a few weeks later and try again.

[snipped] was told that they were "generous" and accounted for a "large frame". so im not too sure what the exact standard is. but i'd say if you are in anyway overweight to try your best over the next few weeks to lose as much as possible.

check out http://nhlbisupport.com/bmi/bmicalc.htm to work out your BMI. not sure how accurate it is, if anyone else knows of a better site let me know.

also, if you want to give the appointments office a call, and give them your weight and height, to see if you are ok, the number is 6662362

and good luck to everyone.

also, has everyone been called for an interview with the local super yet? i haven't and neither has my mate [snipped]

Cosworth

I don't have my interview until the 31st and i got a call today to go see the super tomorrow so i'll let you know how it goes.

Gary

Just checked on the bmi calculator and i have a bmi of 24.1 I'm 6Ft 3" and 13st 11lb.

NeverHappy

I called them and explained my situation, ie returning from injury etc.

I was told to explain all this when I get the call for the medical, (if I get that far). It was also mentioned that for my height - 5ft 9in, that a weight of 13st is the max (thats a BMI 27). That means that they have their own measurements that dont seem to directly correlate to the BMI.