Commissioner Drew Harris addressed the progress of An Garda Síochána, highlighting a 51% increase in garda staff, deployment of 700 body worn cameras, and a strategic information-led approach. The report indicates investment of €75m in the vehicle fleet, which now totals over 3,600 vehicles including armed support and water cannon units, not yet deployed but ready for public order challenges in instances of extreme violence. The preparations are particularly significant as Ireland will hold the EU Presidency in 2026, necessitating readiness for any arising public order issues.
"In a very violent situation, we need to make sure that we're not suffering members being injured, as opposed to having the vehicles and the equipment, including water cannons, which can probably deal with very violent disorder. So that's what they're there for."
"They're there for pretty extreme scenarios, but they're there to protect the public. They're there to protect members of An Garda Síochána who are engaged in public order policing."
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