Over 100 Gardaí Armed with Tasers in Urgent New Pilot Program

UPDATE: Over 100 frontline Gardaí will be armed with taser guns as part of an urgent new six-month pilot program. Justice Minister Helen McEntee is set to announce this significant development at a Cabinet meeting today, emphasizing the need for enhanced safety measures in police operations.

The tasers will be deployed in regions where body-worn cameras are already in use, specifically targeting areas like Dublin South Central, Dublin North Central, Waterford, and Kilkenny. Minister O’Callaghan’s memo highlights that the selected Gardaí have undergone specialized training for the effective use of these devices.

Garda Commissioner Justin Kelly previously voiced concerns about the pressures facing officers, stating that he receives weekly reports of injuries sustained by Gardaí in the line of duty. The introduction of tasers aims to provide an additional tool for officers to manage potentially dangerous situations more effectively.

Over the past two years, the rollout of body cameras has progressed in various locations, with a procurement process selecting Axon, Reveal, and Motorola to supply equipment for Dublin, Limerick, and Waterford respectively. Authorities anticipate that these cameras will not only enhance officer safety but also reduce complaints of police misconduct, streamline court processes, and improve overall policing outcomes.

With this pilot program, the Gardaí expect to foster greater professionalism and accountability within the force, ultimately contributing to a safer environment for both officers and the public.

As this story develops, officials will monitor the impact of the tasers on policing effectiveness and community safety. Stay tuned for further updates on this breaking news as it unfolds.