Army seeks 40-year sentences for murder of soldiers

ARMY representatives are calling for 40-year mandatory sentences for the murder of defence force members as concern mounts over the growth in armed political splinter groups and gangs.

Rank-and-file members want changes to the criminal justice system in line with minimum imprisonment terms already handed down for the murder of gardaí and prison officers.

PDFORRA, the association representing soldiers, sailors and aircrew, will bring up the issue at its annual conference which begins today in Carlow. Ahead of the meeting, general secretary Gerry Rooney said: “PDFORRA wants to see these provisions extended to all members of the defence forces operating in aid to the civil power. The bottom line is that they should have as much protection under the law in the performance of their duties as gardaí and prison officers.”