Vol. 449 No. 6
16 Mr. E. O'Keeffe asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs if he will seek a ban on further use of plastic or rubber bullets by the security forces North of the Border in view of the horrific injuries that they cause; and if he will raise this matter at his next meeting with the British Prime Minister. [3179/95]
I share the Deputy's concern at the injuries and deaths that have been caused by plastic bullets in Northern Ireland in the past. The record of fourteen deaths from the use of plastic bullets in Northern Ireland, and numerous injuries, demonstrates that these weapons are highly dangerous.Successive Governments have impressed on the British Government the need for stricter controls over and effective guidelines on their use. I note that their use has declined over the years although I am aware that there have been instances of their use since the ceasefire. In the circumstances now prevailing, it is particularly important that the security forces act with maximum restraint so as to ensure that the use of plastic bullets is curtailed to the greatest possible extent. I shall keep this matter under review in the context of our ongoing contacts with the British Government within the framework of the Anglo-Irish Agreement.
