Gardaí welcome bill as more resources sought

RANK and file gardaí yesterday gave a cautious welcome to new legislation aimed at crime gangs though they warned that basic resources were still outstanding for the force.

As debate continued over new measures to tighten suspects getting bail and their right to silence, gardaí greeted the legislative package announced by Justice Minister Michael McDowell with a mixed reaction.

The Garda Representative Association (GRA) called for the delivery of fundamental resources such as garda numbers, communications and equipment.