Garda go-ahead for non-lethal energy devices

THE Government yesterday authorised the use of non-lethal energy devices to the Garda’s Emergency Response Unit (ERU).

Justice Minister Michael McDowell made the announcement after the Government considered the matter at yesterday’s Cabinet meeting.

The Tánaiste said he also briefed the Government on a decision by Garda Commissioner Noel Conroy to set up regional response teams outside Dublin to initially deal with critical incidents pending any deployment of the ERU.