John Deasy
Question:189 Mr. Deasy asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he will bring forward proposals to equip gardaí with non-lethal weapons without further delay. [23504/03]
Written Answers. - Garda Equipment.
In November 2002 I 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.
The implementation team submitted its recommendations on training and they have been approved. The next phase of the introduction process, which is limited to ERU deployment, will involve the purchase of the above items and the commencement of training to instructor level. These trained personnel will then be tasked with developing and delivering a training programme in the use of the selected weapons.
Question No. 190 answered with Question No. 116. Question No. 191 answered with Question No. 90.