Dara Calleary (Mayo, Fianna Fail)
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Question 547: To ask the Minister for Justice and Equality if he has engaged in discussions with the Garda authorities, with any of the Garda representative associations or with any other body, agency or individual regarding strengthening the legal protection surrounding gardaí carrying out their duties. [22478/11]

Alan Shatter (Dublin South, Fine Gael)
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Section 19 of the Criminal Justice (Public Order) Act 1994 as amended by Section 185 of the Criminal Justice Act of 20006 already provides that any person who assaults or threatens to assault a peace officer acting in the execution of his or her duty, knowing that he or she is, or being reckless as to whether he or she is, a peace officer so acting, shall be guilty of an offence. In this context, "Peace Officer" includes a member of An Garda Síochána as well as other emergency workers. Persons found guilty of offences under that act are liable on summary conviction to a Class A fine (not exceeding €5,000) and/or a term of imprisonment not exceeding 12 months, or both. The penalty on conviction on indictment is a fine determined by the Court or a term of imprisonment not exceeding 7 years, or both.

The situation will be kept under review. I will listen carefully to any suggestions for further change and I will have no hesitation in bringing forward proposals for additional sanctions if the need arises.