UN human rights experts have raised serious concerns regarding the use of less-lethal weapons by the National Police of the Irish Republic, known as Gardaí. They highlight significant risks of human rights violations associated with these weapons, particularly the use of double-strength pepper spray and Conductive Energy Devices (CED), also known as tasers.
In a statement issued from Geneva, the experts noted that the acquisition of these weapons could lead to violations of the absolute prohibition against torture and cruel, inhuman, or degrading treatment. The SABRE Red Crossfire MK-3 Gel, among the most potent irritant sprays available, allegedly caused injuries during a protest in October 2025, where demonstrators were subjected to excessive force.
The decision to purchase these weapons reportedly stemmed from disturbances in Dublin in November 2023. The experts emphasized a lack of clarity in the justification for increasing the potency of the sprays, stating that the operational analysis behind this decision remains ambiguous. They expressed concern that the safeguards for using such powerful tools are unclear.
Concerns Over Tasers and Use of Force
In addition to the pepper spray, the experts criticized the Gardaí’s pilot project involving tasers, which deliver electric shocks. They argue that the primary function of these devices serves no legitimate purpose and categorizes them as inherently cruel, inhuman, or degrading. Notably, the experts were alarmed by reports indicating that these weapons could be deployed against vulnerable groups, including pregnant women and the elderly.
“Less-lethal weapons should not be used in situations of crowd control, especially when individuals are exercising their right to peaceful assembly,” the experts stated. They warned that such weapons diminish the use of de-escalation techniques and should only be employed as a last resort following a clear verbal warning and an opportunity for participants to disperse.
Despite being classified as “less-lethal,” both the pepper spray and tasers can inflict substantial pain and carry a high risk of secondary injuries. The experts underscored that any use of force by security personnel must adhere to the principles of legality, necessity, proportionality, precaution, and non-discrimination, aligning with international standards.
Calls for Transparency and Public Debate
The UN experts expressed concern regarding the adoption of these weapons, highlighting a pattern of opacity and lack of public debate surrounding such critical decisions. They have reached out to the Irish Government to address their concerns and seek clarification on these matters.
The issues raised by the UN experts reflect broader questions about the use of force in policing and the need for transparent discussions about the implications of deploying less-lethal weapons in managing public demonstrations. Their statements emphasize the necessity for stringent regulations and oversight to protect the rights of individuals during such encounters.
