Brabazon calls for statutory indemnity for Gardai engaging scramblers 

Tom Brabazon, TD for Dublin Bay North and Fianna Fáil spokesperson on Justice, has called for government to bring forward a statutory indemnity for Gardai engaging scramblers.

“Scramblers are still wreaking havoc in our communities after the tragic death of Grace Lynch. Gardaí must be given power and protection to pursue and apprehend those engaging in reckless behaviour,” he said.

“Speaking to Gardai on the ground, there is complete frustration that they cannot carry out basic tasks of apprehending criminals without the risk that they will be prosecuted by Fiosrú.

“It is obvious that Senior Gardai are reluctant to instruct their officers to pursue these for the very reason that they could be suspended and prosecuted and as such will lose much needed personnel”.

“Government must now offer Gardai the necessary protection by way of statutory indemnity so that they can carry out their jobs and protect the public from these criminals who do wanton damage to our communities”

“As a society we must take this step as otherwise we will continue a practise of having a group of untouchable criminals.

“This practise must end”.