Waterford Gardaí issued with tasers amidst a rise in violent attacks on members
Over 120 Gardaí have been issued with tasers across Waterford and Dublin
Gardaí in Waterford have been issued with tasers as a response to an increase in violent attacks.
Over 120 Gardaí have been issued with tasers across Waterford and Dublin, as part of a new pilot programme.
It comes amidst a large increase in the number of violent attacks happening, especially to Gardaí, according to RTÉ.
On average, 300 force members have been attacked every year for the past 10 years.
Acting Deputy Garda Commissioner Paul Cleary said the programme is about "preventing harm" rather than trying to change the "culture of Irish policing."
Tasers shoot an electrical current that disrupts a person's muscle control, making them temporarily unable to move or attack.
Armed Gardaí, such as the Emergency Response Unit, have had tasers since 2007.
Over the past five years, they have been deployed an average of twice a month.
128 Garda members from Waterford Garda Station, and stations in Kevin Street, Pearse Street, and Store Street, will receive tasers.
Only certain uniformed Gardaí with body-worn cameras will be issued with tasers.
They will also have to have completed a three-day training course on the Irish Constitution and European Convention on Human Rights principles.
The Office of the Police Ombudsman, Fiorsrú, will get a notification every time a taser is used.
Each incident in which it is required will be recorded.