asked the Minister for Justice if he will outline the circumstances under which a member of the Garda Síochána may open fire in the course of his duties; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Garda Síochána Firearms.
2.
Detailed instructions in relation to the circumstances in which firearms may be used by members of the force in the course of duty are set out in the Garda Síochána Code. However, for the purpose of replying to this question I propose to give only a broad outline of those circumstances. Firstly, it is important to emphasise that firearms are issued only to members trained and proficient in their use; that firearms are issued primarily as weapons of defence, and that the members concerned must be fully familiar with the instructions governing the use of the firearm entrusted to them. Broadly speaking, a firearm may be used by a member of the Garda Síochána only in circumstances where it is absolutely necessary in self-defence or to repel a serious attack on a person whose life is thereby endangered or to repel a serious attack on premises or property such as might occur during a major incident involving, say, rioting, looting or a serious arson attack. The use of firearms would be justified only where no other means were available to protect the life or property which was imperiled. An overriding principle in all of this area is that the use of the firearm must be lawful and that no more force than is necessary should be used.
I should add that the Garda authorities have assured me that, in every case where a firearm is discharged by a member of the force in the course of his duty, the circumstances are fully investigated to ensure that all instructions are strictly observed.