Arrest in peace

Gardai seek protection as filming by public leads to social media abuse

- MICHAEL O'TOOLE

MIDDLE-RANKING gardai are set to call for officers to be given protection from civilians filming them as they do their jobs.

The annual conference of the Association of Sergeants and Inspectors, which begins in Co Kerry today, will debate a motion calling on Justice Minister Jim O'Callaghan to address the growing issue of citizen journalists - and their impact on policing.

At present, anyone can film a garda going about his or her work in a public place - but some officers now say that exposes them to abuse, especially on social media.