The Garda Commissioner has asked the Government to change the law so Gardaí can make protesters remove balaclavas and face coverings.

Masked protesters have turned up at politicians' homes on a number of occasions in recent months, while balaclavas have also been used at protests outside accommodation earmarked for asylum seekers.

Balaclava concerns

Commissioner Harris said today he’s very concerned about these cases and accepted that legislation to deal with demonstrations may need to be refreshed.

“With the specific issue around face coverings, balaclavas, or whatever it might be, I've asked for an amendment in respect of the public order legislation,” he said.

“That's around section 8, where we can make a requirement in a public order type setting in respect of that.

“Protest is protected, but also the family home is protected in the constitution.

“We want to be clear that we balance that in terms of protecting the homes of individuals - including politicians - from those instances which go beyond protest and look like intimidation and harassment.”

It is understood the Justice Minister has asked the Attorney General to examine the issue and aims to pass the legislation as soon as possible.

Garda Commissioner Drew Harris speaking to the media at Garda HQ in Dublin's Phoenix Park, 23-11-23. Image: Sam Boal/Rollingnews.ie

The Garda Commissioner said he was “very concerned” by the hoax bomb threat made to the home of the Taoiseach this week.

“What concerns me is the number of incidents being reported, and it’s not just members of the House of the Oireachtas, but also local councillors,” he said.

“Every complaint we get, we mount a full investigation, and we’ve brought individuals to justice.

“I’m very concerned about incidents that happened during the recent election campaign, and there are a number of investigations that we want to bring to fruition before the next election campaign.”

Dublin events

Commissioner Harris also said to expect more Gardaí in the capital this week to help manage the large volume of events taking place.

“Tomorrow there will be over 900 Gardaí on the streets dealing with all the various festivals, concerts, etc,” he said.

“We are aware there's going to be a huge amount of people out enjoying themselves.

“There are no specific public order concerns around this except crowd management, and then invariably, incidents are going to happen from that.

“Obviously, our first responsibility is the safety of the public, and I'm convinced we've put out sufficient numbers to ensure that.”

Performances by Taylor Swift, Shania Twain, Doja Cat, and more will be gracing Dublin this weekend, in addition to four All Ireland Football Championship quarter-finals and the annual Dublin Pride Parade.

Main image: Men wearing balaclavas to cover their faces. Image: Rushay Booysen / Alamy Stock Photo