Bertie on RTS and Mayday 2003

national | rights, freedoms and repression | news report Thursday April 14, 2005 13:45 by Anorak

The Taoiseach: I recall what the Opposition said when two years ago a community garda in this city stood up to deal with the unfair elements. I answered in this House for that garda, who tried to clear out a few hooligans and vandals from the May Day celebrations. I was trying to defend the poor man. The Labour Party talks about community gardaí but give no support to community policing.

Mr. J. Higgins: That is outrageous.

Ms Burton: The Taoiseach told us he was with the people. He was clearing the way.

Mr. Rabbitte: He was some community garda.

The Taoiseach: The Labour Party gives the Garda Síochána no support but undermines it instead. If it wants to help the gardaí it should give them the powers and support they need.

Mr. Howlin: Give them a few batons.

Mr. Costello: Batons rather than resources.