IT'S TIME TO GET TOUGH; Calls for new legislation on violent criminals who attack emergency crews.

Byline: EOIN REYNOLDS

GARDAI have called for tough new laws to combat assaults on emergency services after the knife attack on a garda.

Daryl Mullen was yesterday recovering in hospital after surgeons operated on his life-threatening knife injuries.

He is said to be responding well but the Garda Representatives Association said the attack is evidence of the dangers faced by officers every day.

President Michael O'Boyce added: "We have asked the Minister for Justice to bring in legislation to make it a special, indictable offence to assault an emergency services worker carrying more serious penalties."

He said the GRA wants any person accused of attacking gardai, firemen and ambulance crews to be brought before the circuit courts where judges are free to impose much harsher prison sentences.

Under current legislation accused are charged under section two and three of the Non-Fatal Offences Against the Person Act.

These cases can be heard in district court where judges are restricted by a maximum two-year prison sentence.

Statistics released last month by the GRA revealed that two officers are attacked every day.

The association has met with Justice Minister Dermot Ahern and urged him to make the legislation a priority.

Gda Mullen was stabbed while at about 1am on Sunday in Westport, Co Mayo. He was rushed to hospital where doctors carried out emergency surgery.

Mr O'Boyce said: "He is seriously injured but I would like to pay tribute to the staff in Mayo for the work they have done."

CAPTION(S):

RECOVERING Gda Mullen