Dublin: A recent review meeting by the Policing Authority has brought to light significant communication challenges that hindered the response to last month’s riots in Dublin. The findings underscored a lack of effective communication systems during the nighttime disturbances.
Assistant Commissioner Paul Cleary revealed that the absence of earpieces impeded direct communication between garda commanders in the central control room and members of the rioting public order unit. To address this issue, the authority recommended improvements to the mobility app and the provision of loudspeakers. Additionally, Commissioner Cleary noted that nine gardaí expressed a lack of confidence in using force during nighttime operations.
In a move to enhance personal security measures for gardaí, a potent incapacitant spray will be made available to all members starting next month. Notably, pepper spray was previously restricted to use by public order and armed units. An initial order for 20,000 units has been placed, with the flexibility to procure more if necessary, according to Garda officials.
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