Gardaí adding numbers to specialist unit trained to handle protests

More gardaí are being given specialist training on how to cut locks and remove glue from protestors refusing to leave an area.

Twenty-three gardaí completed the course last year, according to The Irish Times, as the force deals with increasing numbers of demonstrations.

The National Public Order Protester Removal Team is involved in dealing with people taking over Government Buildings and public spaces.

Training for protester removal specialists includes how to cut safety chains and locks and remove glue and other adhesives from demonstrators.

Gardaí in the unit are also trained on how to safely remove protesters from heights.

Last year, there were 617 protests in Dublin, with 235 relating to anti-immigration sentiments, and 54 people were arrested during 25 protests.