Garda stabbed and slashed with a knife

The garda was treated at the scene and remained on duty. File picture

A uniformed garda was stabbed and slashed with a knife when he tried to come to the aid of a distressed man in Co Cavan on Tuesday.

It is understood the garda, who was on his own, was responding to an incident just before lunchtime.

He came across a man, who is known to gardaí, suffering from a mental health crisis.

When the garda tried to intervene and give assistance to the man, the individual attacked the garda with a knife and inflicted slash and stab wounds on his arm and thigh.

Assistance was called and the garda received medical treatment at the scene. 

He did not require hospitalisation and continued his shift.

The attacker was held under mental health legislation and was later released without charge.

A statement issued by Garda HQ said: “Gardaí were called to an incident in the Cootehill area of Co Cavan at around midday on Tuesday, 15 October. 

"While trying to provide assistance to a member of the public, a garda received injuries. 

"He was treated at the scene and remained on duty.

“A man (aged in his 50s) was detained under the Mental Health Act and was subsequently released without charge. 

"A file will now be prepared for the Director of Public Prosecutions.” 

Deputy general secretary of the Garda Representative Association James Morrisroe said: “Unfortunately this acts as another reminder of the daily dangers our members face while carrying out their duty.

“No member deserves to come under attack but especially when they are coming to the aid of an injured member of the public.” 

He added: “I would like to commend the actions and professionalism of the member concerned, thank him for his bravery, and wish him a speedy recovery.”