New legislation to allow use of force against trespassers

Minister for Justice Michael McDowell is to draft a new bill allowing householders to use force to defend themselves and their property.

The issue hit the headlines last year after the trial of Mayo farmer Padraig Nally for the manslaughter of Traveller John Ward.

Mr Nally was acquitted of the charge despite shooting Mr Ward dead for trespassing on his property.

The Government has now approved moves to amend existing legislation in this area and to set out to extent to which justifiable force may be used.

The changes will also remove the obligation on a person who is defending their dwelling to retreat in the face of a criminal trespasser.