Gardaí seek speedy roll-out of stab-proof vests

Gardaí are calling for more urgency in the introduction of stab-proof vests for all members of the force.

Ireland's 11,000 rank-and-file gardaí are due to be issued with the protective vests between now and the end of June.

However, Garda representative groups want the move speeded up following the stabbing of a garda sergeant in Fermoy, Co Cork, on New Year's Eve.

John Egan, president of the Garda Representative Association, says his members also want the force to be equipped with extendable batons and pepper spray as a matter of urgency to deal with public-order situations.