Gardaí should follow PSNI’s lead and send surplus equipment to Ukraine – Richmond

With the war in Ukraine causing thousands of deaths and untold damage, Ireland must provide help in every way we can, including donating surplus supplies from An Garda Siochana to protect the Ukrainian people, according to Fine Gael TD and party spokesman on European Affairs, Neale Richmond.

Deputy Richmond said: “As Putin’s bloody war in Ukraine enters its 45th day, it is vital that Ireland provides help and aid in every way possible to help the Ukrainian people.

“This week, the PSNI sent 300 ballistic vests and 50 ballistic helmets to the Ukrainian army after receiving a request from the National Police Coordination Centre.

“An Garda Siochana should follow suit and send any surplus safety equipment and supplies to the Ukrainian troops.

“Gardai have already displayed their willingness to help the Ukrainian people, with 29 Gardai delivering nine vans of urgent supplies, including medicines and generators, to the Slovak-Ukrainian border.

“These supplies will be delivered to an orphanage and two hospitals in Ukraine after receiving requests from the Ukrainian Embassy.

“Members of An Garda Siochana have shown they are  willing and able to provide this assistance to the Ukrainian people, now Garda management must follow suit and send over all surplus equipment that can be of some use.

“An attack on any European country is an attack on us all and we must continue to help in any and every way we possibly can” Deputy Richmond concluded.