Madam, – As a former President of UCD student Union (2003-2004), I took part in many protests in the campaign for free education.
Direct action often formed a part of these protests. Indeed, this direct action was often “officially” organised by the Union of Students in Ireland.
Make no mistake about it. The behaviour of the Garda Síochána at last Wednesday’s demo marks a new departure in their conduct at student demonstrations.
I have seen many similar examples of direct action in the past, but never before have I witnessed a Garda response like the one now visible in YouTube clips.
The question then, is this: What had changed? – Yours, etc,
Madam, – The riot helmet D1609 that a garda is wearing in Alan Betson’s picture showing the student protests (Home News, page 6, November 4th), clearly has the word “police” written on it. The helmets must have been a job lot from the UK or perhaps they are being supplied by the IMF in advance of future protests? – Yours, etc,