Garda row over use of controversial 'spit hoods' escalates

Garda Commissioner Drew Harris introduced 'anti-spit guards' during the covid-19 pandemic to protect frontline gardaí and supervisors from being spat or coughed at by suspects. File picture: Brian Lawless/PA Wire

A row between the Policing Authority and the Garda Commissioner over the continued use of controversial ‘spit hoods’ has escalated.

Drew Harris introduced “anti-spit guards” during the covid-19 pandemic to protect frontline gardaí and supervisors from being spat or coughed at by suspects.