It has been reported that a serious lack of money in the Garda payroll means the force must shed a large part of its work division.

According to reports in today's Irish Independent, career breaks of up to three years will be offered to gardai, in an effort to cut 1,000 jobs.

A cash shortage as a result of €25m in cutbacks means there is only enough money to pay 12,500 gardaí in a workforce of 13,417.

Senior members of the gardaí believe they can not make up the shortfall in garda numbers through retirement.

As part of the career break deal, a lump sum taxable amount of €30,000 will be offered, with a guarantee the job is kept open after the three-year duration.

They would still be subject to garda disciplinary regulations, so not be permitted to work for security firms.