Call for public order squads

MIDDLE-RANKING gardaí will today call on the Garda commissioner to provide public order units in every division to back up members battling increasing numbers of late-night disturbances.

Gardaí want all members trained in the use of riot shields and special units for rising unrest in communities, to support ordinary gardaí when large-scale disturbances happen outside clubs and pubs.

The AGSI said a marked rise in public order incidents outside late-night food outlets and on street corners means gardaí are often heckled and interfered with when making arrests.