Stephen Moore: Dublin riots highlight lack of leadership and support for An Garda Síochána

Former garda writes that tolerance of antisocial behaviour and under-resourcing of An Garda Síochána contributed to Dublin's 'night of shame'

A garda evades missiles during the Love Ulster riot in Dublin in February, 2006. Stephen Moore was on duty that day and says gardaí took back back control of the city due to strong leadership. Picture: Niall Carson/PA

Like so many Dubliners, last Friday morning I woke up with feelings of disgust, shame, disappointment, and anger. 

I was a member of An Garda Síochána  for almost 20 years and I served all my time in Pearse Street Garda Station. If I had not resigned earlier this year, I would have been standing shoulder to shoulder with my former colleagues as a riotous mob took control of our streets, or if I was less fortunate, I could have been one of the lone guards placed in the horrible scenario of facing a mob by themselves on O’Connell Bridge.