The Irish Congress of Trade Unions said today (Sept 19) that it is to seek a meeting with the Garda Commissioner over concerns in relation to the policing of rallies and demonstrations.
This follows a meeting of the Congress Executive Council at which the policing of recent housing protests was discussed.
General Secretary Patricia King said: "Congress condemns outright the sinister nature of the recent removal of peaceful activists and protestors by private and unaccountable persons, with masked Gardaí present.
"We believe this escalation and intimidation of peaceful activists is a serious misuse of the civic power and should not be repeated," Ms King said.
"In addition, those operating within the private security sector must at all times act within the law and the regulations that govern their sector. This was clearly not the case in the recent case of the eviction on North Frederick Street, which is a matter of deep concern."
"Congress also condemns outright the online intimidation and threats directed at members of An Garda Síochána which it finds abhorrent and deeply unacceptable."
Ms King said Congress is to seek a meeting with the Office of the Garda Commissioner to discuss the issues arising from the policing of demonstrations and rallies.
ENDS
For further information contact: Macdara Doyle on 087 9171471
