Garda representative associations have called on the Government to introduce new pre-emptive legislation to enable the force to tackle organised crime.
Gardaí say they want to be able to bring those suspected of gang-related crime before the Special Criminal Court and allow testimony from a Chief Superintendent to be used as evidence against them.
They also want the court to be able to draw inferences from any refusal by those suspects to answer garda questions.
The General Secretary of the Association of Garda Sergeants and Inspectors, Joe Dirwan, has said that there is now a crisis situation.
The Tánaiste and Minister for Justice has described this morning's murder in Limerick as yet another example of cowardly, vicious and cruel behaviour by a small minority of people.
Speaking following a meeting with the Garda Commissioner, the Deputy Commissioner and the Taoiseach, Michael McDowell said the city of Limerick is a good city and the vast majority of people in areas like Southill, O'Malley Park and Moyross are good people.
But, he added, a tiny minority of people are settling scores amongst each other in a way that is callous and vicious.
Mr McDowell said this morning's meeting was a very comprehensive briefing on all the issues which are the subject of recent public attention.
He said he would be bringing proposals to tackle organised crime before Cabinet tomorrow.
When asked about comments from the Garda Representative Association regarding equipment and resources, Mr McDowell said stab proof vests were under test.
Information on Dublin murder sought
Meanwhile, gardaí are still seeking information on the getaway car used in the murders of Anthony Campbell and the drug dealer Martin 'Marlo' Hyland in Finglas in Dublin last week.
The black Volkswagen Passat was stolen in Newbridge on 30 November, and the gang put a false 06 D number plate on it.
Its original number was 05 D 68043, and gardaí want to hear from anyone with information.
