Laois-based prison officers can work longer under new law
Gardaí and Defence forces personnel can also work longer
Prison officers at the two prisons in Portlaoise will able to work beyond the current retirement age under changes announced by the Minister for Justice.
A later retirement age for officers at the Midlands and Portlaoise Prisons is being introduced by Minister for Justice Helen McEntee. She has received Government approval to publish a wide-ranging Miscellaneous Provisions Bill, which she intends to enact before the Dáil breaks for summer
The Bill will provide for an increase in the mandatory retirement for uniformed public servants, including members of An Garda Síochána, Prison Officers and the Defence Forces, from 60 to 62 years of age.
“I am pleased to have secured Government approval to legislate for an increase in the mandatory retirement age for uniformed public servants, including members of An Garda Síochána and the Irish Prison Service. This decision reflects the reality that people are living longer, and many want to continue working in their chosen career for longer,” said Minister McEntee.
The Bill also will increase the maximum fines payable by airline and ferry companies where they allow someone to board a vehicle coming into the State without proper documentation.
The Bill will also increase the maximum penalties upon conviction on indictment for the following four knife-related offences.