Over 100 frontline Gardaí to be armed with taser guns by Christmas

More than 100 frontline Gardaí in Ireland are to be equipped with taser stun-guns by Christmas as part of a new six-month pilot scheme.

Set to be brought before Cabinet by Justice Minister Jim O'Callaghan on Tuesday, this move is in recognition that frontline Gardaí have "limited tactical options" in violent or high risk-encounters.

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Many supporters of the plan have said conductive energy devices (CEDs) or 'tasers' offer a "less-lethal" alternative to more forceful interventions which could potentially reduce injuries to An Garda Síochána and members of the public.

The move signals a significant shift in Irish policing policy as it recognises the increasing dangers Gardaí face. An average of 299 Gardaí were assaulted each year from 2014 to 2024.

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Over 100 specially trained frontline officers will take part in the initial phase under a six-month trial in divisions already equipped with body-worn cameras like Dublin, Waterford and Kilkenny.

If approved, this will be the first time unformed Gardaí beyond specialist units like the armed and emergency-response team carry tasers.