Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 25 October 2005
503 Mr. J. O’Keeffe asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the position with regard to anti-stab vests being individually available to members of the Garda Síochána; and if the New York Police Benevolent Association will provide second-hand vests to members of the Garda Síochána in view of the continuing need for the adequate supply for such equipment here. [30618/05]
View answerI am informed by the Garda authorities, who are responsible for the detailed allocation of resources including personnel, that a modern lightweight technical vest with anti-stab and anti-ballistic properties has been sourced and procured. I am further informed that it is envisaged that this particular vest will be piloted in an operational Garda district in the very near future. Garda management states that from a health and safety point of view, it would be totally inappropriate to issue second-hand vests to members and, accordingly, it is not proposed to provide such vests to members of the Garda Síochána.
