Emergency workers may be issued with stab vests

Emergency workers may soon be issued with 'stab vests' in response to a spate of vicious attacks across the country.

The attacks are happening on a weekly basis, with one Dublin fire-fighter needing 35 stitches in his face after being struck with a bottle last week.

Figures from the Dublin Fire Brigade show there were 57 attacks reported last year. Unions say this is the tip of the iceberg and at least 200 assaults are taking place every year.

Dublin Fire Brigade is now consulting with UK experts on the possibility of introducing stab vests.

A review of security measures for emergency personnel in Cork is also underway, with local politicians calling for attacks on fire-fighters and ambulance workers to be made a special criminal offence.