Permanent armed response unit for Limerick

Garda officials have confirmed today that a Garda armed response unit will be permanently based in Limerick beginning in July.

The pilot project which would establish the new ‘Southern Regional Response Unit’ will see it’s officers take part in weapons training at Templemore Garda training college and they will also train abroad learning skills and competences used by European forces.

The project is being trialled in Limerick and Cork.

The announcement comes on the day that the Garda Representative Association will debate the idea of having more uniformed member of the force armed.

Last night Deputy General Secretary of the GRA, John Healy, stated he was in favour of motorbike Gardai carrying guns along with other Gardai who are in everyday contact with criminal gang activity.