National Archives 1985: Gardaí were using privately-owned handcuffs

In 1985, senior gardaí were concerned about the use of privately owned sets of handcuffs by members of the force.

State papers reveal that a deputy Garda commissioner sought legal clarification from the Attorney General and the Chief State Solicitor at the end of 1985 about Garda use of non-regulation equipment.

The authorities indicated they had a certain concern about the use of privately-owned handcuffs.