Since the formation of the Garda Síochána the Irish police force has been mainly an unarmed force.
Following a spate of attacks on members of An Garda Síochána along the border, a debate has arisen over the possibility of arming the Irish Police Force. Last weekend, three members of the force were savagely beaten after a gang smashed through a checkpoint. Many members of the force remain opposed to carrying firearms and are seeking for an end to the attacks.
Jack Marrinan of the Garda Representative Body says that An Garda Síochána was brought into being as an unarmed force and the hope is to continue that way.
Generally speaking, we are an unarmed force. We hope to continue to be an unarmed force.
Mr Marrinan believes that it would be unhealthy for society to make firearms more commonplace. They would be more commonplace if Gardaí carried guns as they went about their duties. Mr Marrinan is hopeful that the day has not yet arrived for seriously considering arming the Gardaí.
An RTÉ News report broadcast on 29 August 1977.
