Govt 'may review protections for people who confront intruders'

The Tánaiste Mary Harney has suggested the Government may consider changes to law to protect people who confront burglars and other trespassers.

Ms Harney was speaking in the Dáil following questions relating to the case of a Co Mayo farmer who allegedly shot an intruder on his land.

Fine Gael leader Enda Kenny claimed the current law in relation to such cases was slanted in favour of intruders and asked if the Government had any plans to review the matter.

"I am always a strong fan of the law being tilted in favour of the victim and maybe in the past that wasn't always the case," Ms Harney said in response.

"I'm sure if legal changes are required, the Minister for Justice will give some consideration to the suggestions being made by Deputy Kenny."