John Deasy
Question:389 Mr. Deasy asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he will be authorising the use of non-lethal weapons by the Garda Síochána; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12829/03]
Written Answers. - Garda Operations.
I have authorised the acquisition and introduction, for use by the emergency response unit, of three less than lethal devices recommended in the implementation plan for the introduction of less than lethal devices into the Garda Síochána. These are the bean bag shot kinetic energy round, the Ferret 12 gauge OC-CS shotgun cartridge delivering CS gas and the aerosol projector delivering pepper spray. The recommendations of the implementation team in respect of procurement of equipment and the development and delivery of training are currently being advanced.