asked the Minister for Justice whether the Garda have acquired or have under their control stocks of and weapons for using CS gas; if so, the quantities thereof and the dates of purchase; the possible uses to which it is proposed to put the gas and equipment; the steps taken to prevent inconvenience or harm to innocent persons by its use; and the ranks of the persons on whom will lie the responsibility of deciding when, in what circumstances and whether or not the gas will be used.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - CS Gas.
47.
The answer to the first part of the question is "No". Accordingly, the other parts of the question do not arise.
Can the Minister say whether or not the Garda may invoke the aid of the Army to assist them in the discharge of any of their duties, including duties dealing with demonstrations?
That seems to be a separate question.
That does not arise from the question.
With respect, it does. Have the Garda the right to call upon the assistance of the Army to deal with demonstrations or in the discharge of other police duties?
There is no reference whatever to the Army in Question No. 47 and I am not prepared to answer a separate and hypothetical question.
Will the Minister say what facilities the Garda have within their control for dealing with matters of public order and is it within the control of the Commissioner of the Garda Síochána to invoke the aid of the Army?
That is a separate question.
The question relates to CS gas.