Increased sentences for assaulting emergency workers agreed

Move welcomed by local Senator.

Government approval to amend laws to increase sentences for assaults causing harm to members of An Garda Síochána and other emergency workers has been welcomed locally.

The legislative changes will be brought forward by way of Committee Stage amendments to the Criminal Justice (Miscellaneous Provisions) Bill.

The amendments will change the maximum sentence for assaulting or obstructing a police officer from 7 to 12 years.

The increase in maximum sentence will apply where the assault causing harm in question is against an on duty Garda or emergency service worker, such as hospital staff, prison officers, members of the fire brigade, ambulance personnel or members of the Defence Forces.

Fianna Fáil Senator in Cavan-Monaghan, Robbie Gallagher, who tirelessly campaigned on this issue said: "In 2019, I introduced a Bill to achieve one simple goal, namely, ensure that sufficient measures are in place to protect nurses, gardaí, firefighters and ambulance personnel.

"We are privileged to live in a civilised country, confident in the knowledge that the services we call on for help, whether nurses, gardaí, fire personnel or whoever else, will come to our aid. One would expect that when that help arrives, it is always welcomed and appreciated. Unfortunately, however, that is not always the case, and our emergency workers can find themselves in dangerous and threatening circumstances.

"The least we can do, as legislators, is to ensure that sufficient protections are in place to protect those who may be assaulted in the course of their duties. Today, I'm delighted that Government has today agreed to a proposal to amend laws to increase sentences for assaults causing harm to these emergency workers who on a daily basis put their lives at risk in doing their work."

He voiced his understanding that the new legislation applies to any assault - any unlawful use of force, or threat of force, direct or indirect – against a Garda or emergency worker. "That might be a punch, it may involve the use of a weapon, or it might be ramming their vehicle."

He concluded by saying: "This further demonstrates Fianna Fáil's commitment in Government to building safer, stronger communities, and to protecting and supporting those who work to keep our communities safe.''