Mr. Drew Harris:

I welcome the opportunity to clarify this. We recently signed off on a policy in respect of what is known as a stinger, that is, a vehicle incapacity device, and that is to be followed shortly by a new policy in respect of pursuit. We emphasise the duties set out presently, as they are in the Garda Síochána Act, and ultimately our responsibility to prevent and to detect crime and regarding the preservation of life. At times, this requires Garda members to use, in effect, coercive powers and to be in pursuit situations. Consequently, we want to be clear to Garda members that they have the support of the organisation and me in terms of their actions and proactive actions in fulfilling our functions as set out in the Garda Síochána Act. As I have mentioned, at times that involves the use of coercive authority and the authorities provided to us by the State to protect the citizens of this State.