Dublin Gardaí training increases by 500 post-riots

The number of trained public order gardaí in Dublin has increased by 500 since the riots in November 2023. This follows a night when over 60 gardaí were attacked during looting and vandalism by a large crowd. Minister for Justice Jim O'Callaghan will inform the Cabinet about new investments in public safety. The Garda now has two water cannons, 15 new public order vans, and 600 body-worn cameras for officers. There are also plans to provide public order gardaí with more body armor and modern shields. In total, over 1,500 gardaí have received additional training in public order policing. The number of those specially trained in Dublin has risen from 200 to 700. The Garda is also reviewing the possible use of tasers and looking to expand its dog unit. New legislation is in the works to address offenses such as rioting and violent disorder. The Cabinet had previously approved measures to use facial recognition technology and to ban face coverings at protests intended to intimidate others. Additionally, a campaign was launched to identify suspects involved in the riots, resulting in 90 identifications from a total of 99 photos shared with the public. O'Callaghan will present a report from the Policing Authority highlighting areas needing improvement in Garda operations. Separately, Minister for Education Norma Foley will address a complaint made to the UN regarding systemic racism in Ireland's childcare institutions. Seven individuals of African-Irish descent have raised concerns about historical discrimination in mother-and-baby homes. The State acknowledges that mothers faced discrimination but claims there is no strong evidence of systemic issues.