THE Garda is seeking candidates from outside the force for a new press and public relations position.
Garda press officers have traditionally been members of the force, but advertisements for the post placed in national newspapers this week make it clear that "civilian" candidates will be considered.
The advertisements, placed by the Civil Service Commission, offer a salary of "circa £30,000" for the job, with the appointment initially on a two year contract.
The use of civilians for senior positions in the public relations, personnel and finance divisions of the force was recommended in the Garda's 1993-1997 five year corporate plan. So far the positions have been filled by gardai, and the recommendation is to be repeated in the report of the Government appointed review group currently examining the operations of the force.
Earlier advertisement of the position met some official resistance. However, sources said yesterday the Minister for Justice, Mrs Owen, was "very enthusiastic" about the idea.
The advertisement says the appointee will "act as a consultant to the force" on all public relations matters will be based in Garda Headquarters in Dublin, and will be required to visit Garda stations throughout the State as well as visit scenes of serious crime.
The Garda Press Office said yesterday it was expected that the appointee would not run the office.