- Gardaí will be given “whatever resources” are required to deal with dangerous driving, including pursuit training, following the tragic M9 crash.
- The Minister for Justice said efforts are under way to prepare legislation to strengthen protections for gardaí involved in pursuits, noting that the Garda Commissioner confirmed training would be introduced this year.
- John Joe O’Connell, vice-president of the association, said “different levels of driver training” are available to gardaí, but “not one of our members is trained in pursuit training.”
- O’Callaghan said there should be consideration for a separate offence in respect of individuals who make a deliberate decision to drive their vehicles in the wrong direction on a motorway.
Gardaí will receive pursuit training for the first time in response to the M9 crash that claimed five teenage lives. The Minister for Justice is drafting legislation to bolster protections for officers engaged in pursuits, as confirmed by the Garda Commissioner.12
John Joe O’Connell, vice-president of the Garda Representative Association, highlighted that while different levels of driver training exist, none of the members are currently trained in pursuit training. This new initiative aims to equip officers with the necessary skills to handle dangerous driving situations more effectively.3
O’Callaghan emphasized the need for a separate offence for those who deliberately drive against traffic on motorways, indicating a broader approach to road safety and enforcement. The introduction of pursuit training is seen as a critical step in enhancing the operational capabilities of Gardaí, ensuring they can respond appropriately to high-risk situations while maintaining public safety.4
The Minister's commitment to providing “whatever resources” are necessary reflects a proactive stance in addressing the challenges faced by law enforcement in pursuit scenarios. This legislative effort, alongside the training initiative, marks a significant shift in policy aimed at improving the safety of both officers and the public during high-speed pursuits.
“The Minister for Justice confirmed that legislation is being prepared to enhance protections for Gardaí during pursuits, with training expected to be introduced this year. Additionally, John Joe O’Connell highlighted that no Gardaí are currently trained in pursuit driving, emphasizing the need for improved training protocols.”
