Garda organisation in favour of arming force

THE association representing middle-ranking gardaí has adopted a policy calling for a permanent armed garda presence on the streets.

The controversial policy was passed at the annual conference of the Association of Garda Sergeants and Inspectors (AGSI), despite the opposition of the body’s national executive.

But Garda Commissioner Fachtna Murphy immediately rejected the call, saying no members in uniform would carry firearms.