Joanna Tuffy (Labour)

Section 7(4) states the Garda Síochána "shall have regard to the importance of upholding human rights". What is the purpose of the words "shall have regard to"? Will it be mandatory for a garda to have regard to human rights? Legislation frequently uses the term "have regard to" for the purpose of requiring a person to take a matter on board. Does this terminology make it permissible for members of the Garda to take a different course of action or will it force them to have regard to human rights?