Bernard Durkan (Kildare North, Fine Gael)
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549. To ask the Minister for Justice and Equality the action that can be taken to address the issue of threats and intimidation against individual members of An Garda Síochána; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [20849/15]

Bernard Durkan (Kildare North, Fine Gael)
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550. To ask the Minister for Justice and Equality if she is aware of threats and abuse directed at members of An Garda Síochána, on and off duty; the extent to which this represents a challenge to the authorities; the most appropriate action in response to same; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [20850/15]

Frances Fitzgerald (Dublin Mid West, Fine Gael)
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I propose to take Questions Nos. 549 and 550 together.

I am aware of concerns expressed recently in relation to threats made against members of the Garda Síochána. The issue of threats against Gardaí going about their duty is not confined to these incidents of course, and is something which I utterly condemn.

As the Deputy is aware, it would not be appropriate for me to detail the operational measures that the Garda authorities have taken in recent instances or would take generally in the these situations. However, I can assure the Deputy that whatever protective and detection measures are deemed appropriate by the Garda authorities will certainly be taken. I should also say that while the criminal law in this area is being kept under ongoing review, there is a range of robust legislative provisions available to the Garda authorities in circumstances where threats or assaults are made against Gardaí.