Finian McGrath (Dublin North Central, Independent)
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359. To ask the Minister for Justice and Equality if his attention has been drawn to the fact that pepper spray when used by gardaí will not work on persons high on snowblow or other such drugs. [52699/13]

Alan Shatter (Dublin South, Fine Gael)
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I am informed by the Garda authorities that prior to the introduction of incapacitant spray into An Garda Síochána detailed research was conducted, with appropriate qualified experts, into the effects of the spray on individuals who are under the influence of alcohol and drugs.

The findings of this research were incorporated into the Garda Policy on the Use of Incapacitant Spray which takes into account situations where the spray may not be effective.

In addition the Deputy will appreciate that, at an operational level, incapacitant spray is one of a number of tactical options which are available for deployment by Garda personnel.