asked the Minister for Justice if he will state whether anysection of the Gardaí carry arms; and, if so, under what circumstances is this carrying of arms permitted.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Carrying of Arms by Gardaí.
Mr. O'Higgins
Members of the detective branch are the only members of the Garda. Síochána who are normally supplied with arms. They do not carry arms every time they go on duty but do so whenever violence, which could not otherwise be prevented, is anticipated. Members of the uniform branch when engaged on special protection duty may be issued with arms, should their divisional officer consider it necessary.