Trial will see 128 gardaí given tasers

James Cox

A new pilot will see tasers issued to 128 frontline uniformed gardaí.

Minister for Justice Jim O'Callaghan informed the Government of the plan at a Cabinet meeting today.

The pilot project could begin as soon as this week in Dublin, Waterford and Kilkenny.

Former General Secretary of the Association of Garda Sergeants and Inspectors (AGSI) Antoinette Cunningham said it is a cultural shift for the force.

Ms Cunningham told Newstalk: "I don't think it'll be given to every member of An Garda Síochána. I think it will be put out there to see, in certain situations, and we've seen some very difficult situations with riots and things over the last few years for An Garda Síochána to police and manage.

"I'm sure they're exploring all options to see what equipment do they need, if any, to police better."

The Tánaiste said tasers could play "an important role" in public order and safety.

Simon Harris said it's not about arming gardai, it is about keeping them safe.

"Brave men and women who put on their uniform every day are often faced now with increased levels of abuse on the streets, levels of attacks, when I was Minister for Justice we increased sentences for people who attacked or assaulted a frontline worker, including a guard.

"But we do need to look at making sure that gardaí have the tools that they need. The gardaí have always been largely unarmed, they wish that to continue, we wish that to continue, but tasers in certain instances can play an important role."

Taoiseach Micheál Martin said the use of tasers will be circumstantial.

"I think it's necessary in certain circumstances. Obviously the judgement calls will have to be made, and there will be very strong guidelines attached to them.

"But it is important that gardaí are protected and also the public are protected against any violence, against any aggression, that could endanger life and cause injury."