Garda terror units on standby
The CBRN teams have been in place since early 2004 and were set up following the September 11 attacks on the US.
The total number of gardaí trained for the units is estimated to be more than 100. The units would respond to any form of chemical or biological threat or attack or any possible nuclear incident.
This includes militants who may be trying to build a so-called ‘dirty bomb’, containing chemical or biological agents.
Gardaí were sent abroad to be trained as experts and, in turn, trained fellow gardaí between late 2003 and early 2004.
“Gardaí were trained at strategic level including three superintendents, operational level involving inspectors, and at tactical level involving sergeants,” a garda spokesman said.
Each of the regional units could be deployed within a short time period, he said. They have fully enclosed suits which protect officers against contamination.
The Defence Forces would assist gardaí in a serious incident. Some 5,000 members have Nuclear Biological Chemical (NBC) protective equipment.
There is also a CBRN defence platoon, with 30-40 highly trained soldiers.
