BY AMY ROSE HARTE

GARDAI in Donegal have been issued with anti-stab vests following months of lengthy campaigning about the risks posed to their health and safety.

The vests were handed out last week to members throughout the county. All members except office staff are now required to wear a vest when on duty.

A spokesperson from the Letterkenny Garda Station said the provision of vests was not a reaction to increasing levels of serious crime but that there was still a difficulty with members being injured.

"You'll have injuries to Gardai but this is trying to reduce the type of serious injuries as it covers the heart and serious organs, the front and the rear. It's a worthwhile thing and that's why they have have been brought in."

The spokesperson added there had been health and safety issues regarding the safety of their members.

"There are threats made against our members on public order duties and those investigating crime, so we need these anti-stabs vests as part of our own welfare and security. They will prevent serious injury or death," he said.

The spokesperson added that any garda reserves recruited in Donegal would also be entitled to wear a vest.

"They must wear them because it's a health and safety issue and requirement. Garda reserves will be entitled to wear them as every member will be given these things," he said.