A similar increase has taken effect for firefighters and members of the Permanent Defence Forces, though has not yet been introduced for gardaí, which will “follow shortly”, the Department of Justice said.

The increases are provided for by the Courts, Civil Law, Criminal Law and Superannuation (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 2024.

The increase is to the maximum retirement age, and people will still be able to continue to retire at 60 if they wish.

Justice minister Helen McEntee said: “This change to the retirement age reflects the reality across all sectors that people can and want to work in their chosen careers for longer.

“I am confident our uniformed public services will benefit from the extended contribution of these experienced staff members. The new retirement age for prison officers comes into effect from today and I look forward to bringing forward the relevant provisions for gardaí in the early autumn.

“The public service careers covered by these regulations represent some of the most challenging, if incredibly rewarding, for those that choose them.

“I hope that offering this option to our most experienced staff members to work for longer in those careers will provide more opportunities for new recruits to learn from their unmatched skills, knowledge, and expertise, ultimately strengthening these bodies.”