Aengus Ó Snodaigh (Dublin South Central, Sinn Fein)
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Question 64: To ask the Minister for Justice and Law Reform if he is aware of allegations of Garda brutality arising from the Union of Students in Ireland demonstration on 3 November 2010 especially in the context of the shocking pictures shown on RTE news on 9 November and if he has discussed the matter with the Garda Commissioner; and the steps he is taking to ensure that the Garda Síochána's response to protests is proportionate and appropriate. [42865/10]

Dermot Ahern (Louth, Fianna Fail)
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In the policing of demonstrations, the Garda Síochána, while respecting the right of legitimate protest, have a duty to ensure as far as possible that the peace is preserved and public order maintained, and that lives and property are protected. The safety of the Gardaí involved is also an important consideration. In preparing for demonstrations, the Garda Síochána have to take into account a number of important factors, including the anticipated numbers, the profile of those likely to be involved, and any intelligence relating to the event. Once a protest starts, the Garda Síochána have to constantly monitor and evaluate the situation and be ready to make tactical decisions based on the prevailing circumstances.

The Garda Síochána Ombudsman Commission is the statutory body charged with the independent oversight of policing in this jurisdiction. I am advised by the Commission that, in respect of the Union of Students in Ireland demonstration on 3 November 2010, to date they have received 36 complaints regarding the policing of the demonstrations. Of those 36 complaints, 20 have been determined to be admissible, 15 have been determined to be inadmissible and 1 complaint has been withdrawn.

The Ombudsman Commission is independent in the exercise of its functions and it would be inappropriate for me to make any further comment at this stage.

Arthur Morgan (Louth, Sinn Fein)
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Question 65: To ask the Minister for Justice and Law Reform his views on the increasing and routine use of heavily veiled and menacingly attired gardaí of the public order and the emergency response units in public, at inappropriate occasions, which may provoke rather than quell disorder; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42868/10]

Dermot Ahern (Louth, Fianna Fail)
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In the policing of demonstrations, the Garda Síochána, while respecting the right of legitimate protest, have a duty to ensure as far as possible that the peace is preserved and public order maintained, and that lives and property are protected. The safety of the Gardaí involved is also an important consideration. In preparing for demonstrations, the Garda Síochána have to take into account a number of important factors, including the anticipated numbers, the profile of those likely to be involved, and any intelligence relating to the event. Once a protest starts, the Garda Síochána have to constantly monitor and evaluate the situation and be ready to make tactical decisions based on the prevailing circumstances.

Public order training forms part of normal training, and additional specialised training is provided for members selected for duty with divisional and regional public order units. Further training is provided for officers in the management of incidents requiring the deployment of public order units. Operational planning for such events also incorporates the principles of the European Convention on Human Rights.