Séamus McGrath (Cork South-Central, Fianna Fail)
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1454. To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality if he has plans to introduce mandatory sentences for those who assault members of An Garda Síochána; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [44502/25]

Cathal Crowe (Clare, Fianna Fail)
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1473. To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality if he will consider introducing a mandatory minimum sentence for those convicted of assault on frontline workers that is, Gardaí, prison officers, healthcare staff, Fire Services personnel, and so on; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [44761/25]

Ken O'Flynn (Cork North-Central, Independent Ireland Party)
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1479. To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality the measures being considered to introduce mandatory sentencing for those convicted of assaulting Gardaí, particularly in light of the recent spike in knife-related attacks.; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [44884/25]

Jim O'Callaghan (Dublin Bay South, Fianna Fail)
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I propose to take Questions Nos. 1454, 1473 and 1479 together.

At the outset I want to make it clear that I am are extremely grateful to all frontline workers for their outstanding dedication and commitment to serving the public and for the important role that they play in our society. It is imperative that frontline workers are able to go about their work safely, and that the law reflects the importance of this.

For the most part, the relationship between frontline workers and the public is one built on very significant trust. We only have to look to the fact that An Garda Síochána is a largely unarmed, and yet hugely effective, community policing service.

However, those who perpetrate violence against frontline workers must face the full rigours of the law. An assault on a member of An Garda Síochána, a prison officer, a member of the fire brigade, ambulance personnel, or a member of the Defence Forces is already an offence under section 19 of the Criminal Justice (Public Order) Act 1994.

Any person who assaults, or threatens to assault, a frontline worker in the execution of their duty is guilty of an offence. An amendment was made to section 19 of the 1994 Act through section 63 of the Criminal Justice (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 2023. That amendment increased the maximum sentence for assaulting or threatening to assault a Garda or other on-duty emergency worker, from 7 to 12 years.

This recent amendment has sent a very clear message that attacks on frontline workers will not be tolerated and will be dealt with robustly.

On mandatory sentences, I am mindful that there are differing views and I will continue to keep the law in this area under review.

I can also assure the Deputy that frontline workers will always have my support to do their jobs.