Vol. 542 No. 5
402 Mr. Hogan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he will introduce regulations to ensure that there is no confusion in the uniforms being worn by members of the Garda Síochána and those of the security forces; if he will set out explicit criteria to ensure that this confusion could not happen in the future; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25038/01]
403 Mr. Hogan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he will introduce legislation to ensure that markings on Garda vehicles are not replicated by any citizen for the purpose of providing a service under the public service negotiations; if he will take the necessary action to eliminate any visual confusion to the security forces arising from any attempt by any individual or group to create such ambiguity; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25039/01]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 402 and 403 together.
Section 15(1) of the Garda Síochána Act 1924 penalises the unlawful possession of Garda clothing and equipment. It also makes it an offence for someone who is not a Garda to wear Garda clothing or any "colorable imitation", or for a person to falsely assume the name, designation or description of a Garda. Consideration is being given to improving the protection of Garda insignia and emblems through legislation. Details of these plans will be made known in the usual way when the Government has decided on its approach to the matter.
