Desperate need for modern firearms, says chief

THE head of the Garda Inspectorate yesterday said there was a “desperate” need for modern firearms training in the force.

Chief Inspector Kathleen O’Toole said it was “frightening” when she learned that in a recent armed siege situation local gardaí only had access to one old firearm and an old ballistic vest.

The former US crime chief said the best way to ensure good morale in the force was to improve accommodation, training, equipment and transport facilities.