Helen McEntee bids to ban balaclavas and other masks 'designed to intimidate'

A masked rioter. Criminologist Nicola Carr says anonymity — online and in the real world — allows people to behave badly with impunity. Picture: Lefteris Pitarakis/AP

A balaclava ban at protests may be introduced by the Government to prevent intimidation and reduce the chance that those who commit violence and disorder can evade arrest.

Balaclavas and other face coverings worn “to intimidate” are to be banned at protests under new legislation to be drafted by Justice Minister Helen McEntee.