Frontline Gardaí To Get Tasers

Justice Minister Jim O'Callaghan is bringing a memo to Cabinet today in relation to tasers for Gardaí.

It's understood 128 frontline Gardai will be trained up, under a 6 month pilot project that could start as early as this week.

The stun guns would only be given to those who have body cams.

The plan would be introduced in three areas to start - Dublin City, Kilkenny and Waterford.

Currently, only members of the Armed Support Units and the Emergency Response Unit carry tasers.

Garda Commissioner Justin Kelly has been considering the proposals, in a bid to better tackle serious violent confrontations.

The pilot project could begin as early as this week, although sources think this is unlikely due to a backlog in training.

Former General Secretary of the Association of Garda Sergeants and Inspectors, Antoinette Cunningham, says it's a cultural shift for the force.

"I think it will be put out there to see in certain situations, and we've seen some very difficult situations with riots and stuff over the last few years for Gardaí to police and manage," she said, "I'm sure they're exploring all options to see what equipment do they need, if any, to police better"..

Tánaiste Simon Harris has insisted its not about arming Gardaí, but more about keeping people safe.

With reporting from Seán Defoe, Emily Keegan, Stephanie Rohan and Jessica Woodlock.