Gardaí to test batons and protective vests

GARDAÍ are to test a range of non-lethal weapons and safety equipment designed to protect members from violent attacks.

Under the pilot project, gardaí will test a baton of up to 28 inches in length which is designed to deal with serious pubic order incidents. Vests to protect against knife and gun attacks will also be tested.

Garda associations believe the equipment and weapons are urgently needed to protect members against attacks, which they say are increasing in number and severity.