Gardaí seek extra powers

SENIOR gardaí yesterday demanded the functions of the Special Criminal Court are extended to tackle “extreme gangland crime”.

The Association of Garda Sergeants and Inspectors said it was now time to ensure hardened criminals are put behind bars, where they belong.

The association’s general secretary Joe Dirwan also insisted the criminal justice system should be firmly on the side of victims and their families - such as the families of Anthony Campbell and Alan Cunniffe.