Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 24 April 2012
594 Deputy Patrick Nulty asked the Minister for Justice and Equality if he is satisfied that An Garda Síochána had a satisfactory and robust policing plan in place for the recent Labour Party conference in Galway which prioritised the health and safety of both conference delegates and protesters; his views on whether the use of pepper spray against protesters was unacceptable and excessive; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [20383/12]
Amharc ar fhreagraI am informed by the Garda authorities that local Garda management is satisfied that the actions taken by gardaí in preparing and policing this event were carried out in line with proper procedures and in accordance with legislation.
I am further informed that an appropriate policing plan for the event was prepared following a full risk assessment.
I am also informed that, on Saturday 14 April approximately 3,500 protesters marched from Eyre Square to the conference venue, where Garda personnel and stewards employed by the event organisers were deployed. An outer cordon was in place and a group of approximately 500 protestors demanded entry to the venue, which was denied. Some of the protesting group attacked the cordon in an effort to gain access through the barriers. A number of protestors made their way to the entrance of the venue, but they were prevented from advancing further and the conference venue was not breached.
I am advised that during the initial exchange, members of An Garda Síochána were accosted by some of the protesters. Due to serious fears for personal safety, gardaí deployed pepper spray against a number of violent and aggressive protestors. Some of the incidents which occurred are the subject of an investigation by An Garda Síochána.
I am assured by the Garda authorities that at all times the health and safety of all concerned, including the protesters, the attendees of the event, as well as the members of An Garda Síochána on duty, were of paramount importance in the policing of the event.
