By 2026, there should be 1,000 active members of the Garda Reserve; at now, there are just 341.

Additionally, the remuneration for the posts has been enhanced; those who volunteer more than 200 hours a year are eligible for a tax-free bonus of €3,000.

Members of An Garda Síochána who volunteer to serve as Garda Reserves. Reserves are stationed in neighbourhoods and support local patrols and efforts to lower crime rates for An Garda Síochána.

On the basis of the expertise or local knowledge of the Garda Reserve, they also support the gardaí in their operations and help police significant occurrences and events.

Public participants “are afforded the opportunity to develop hands-on policing experience, and to serve their communities by giving back to their own locality” through this initiative.

Any Irish citizen between the ages of 18 and 60, as well as citizens of EEA states, the Swiss Confederation, or European Member states, as well as individuals who have been lawfully residing in the state for five years, are eligible to apply.