Mairéad Farrell (Galway West, Sinn Fein)
Link to this: Individually | In context

765. To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality the additional costs incurred by An Garda Síochána for security provided at Shannon Airport due to US military use of Shannon Airport from 2018 to date in 2025. [61626/25]

Jim O'Callaghan (Dublin Bay South, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context

I am advised by the Garda Commissioner, having regard to the available information, that An Garda Síochána have incurred costs of €3.46M from 2018 to date in respect of overtime, travel and subsistence in the context of addressing the overall security needs of Shannon Airport.

Gary Gannon (Dublin Central, Social Democrats)
Link to this: Individually | In context

766. To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality if his attention has been drawn to a report by an organisation (details supplied) on the policing of the pro-Palestine protest held near Dublin Port Tunnel on 4 October 2025; if he has reviewed the findings of that report regarding alleged excessive use of force by An Garda Síochána; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [61632/25]

Jim O'Callaghan (Dublin Bay South, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context

The right to protest is enshrined in the Constitution and in law. It is a legitimate part of our democracy. It is, however, a right to peaceful protest and it comes with responsibility. It is the responsibility of everyone who wishes to engage in protest to do so in a peaceful manner and not in a way that infringes on the safety and rights of others.

While the Garda Commissioner is responsible by law for operational policing, I am assured that their approach to policing protests is predicated on keeping people safe, preventing anti-social and criminal behaviour, and the management of traffic. Furthermore, the Garda Commissioner is responsible for the management and administration of the policies in place within An Garda Síochána and publication of same.

Any Garda activity in relation to evolving events involves a graduated policing response that takes account of the relevant legislation and public safety and engages with protestors before resorting to the use of force in the resolution of public order incidents.

Protests create operational challenges for An Garda Síochána. Factors such as the number of persons protesting, the location of protests and actions at the protest as well as the health safety and welfare of all, including Gardaí, require significant assessment. In response to these demands, Gardaí may deploy an increased presence or other measures, as deemed operationally necessary.