Barrister warns over ‘body on a slab’ comments

A criminal barrister said a “body on a slab” approach to burglars as recommended by a councillor would be a “blank card” to homeowners to shoot anyone in their homes.

Michael O’Higgins SC was responding to comments by Galway city councillor Pádraig Conneely, who called on people to “take a stand” when confronting intruders.

Mr Conneely, who is chairman of the city’s joint policing committee, sparked strong reaction after he said: “I believe one body laid out on a slab after a robbery would put an end to robberies in the area pretty lively.”