Government To Consider Law Allowing Gardaí To Order Mask Removal At Protests

Tuesday, 6 May 2025 11:52

By Martin Osborne

It would allow gardai to remove masks if they “reasonably suspect” its use is intimidatory or intended to make it easier to commit a crime and avoid detection.

Potential laws to allow Gardaí ask people at protests to remove face masks or coverings is to be brought before cabinet.

It's a slight change to current laws in a situation where officers suspect they're being worn to prevent identification in a potential offence.

It would also allow Gardaí to seize the masks or coverings.

Christy Galligan, a former Garda sergeant, said it would help officers but there's a fine line to be tread.

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