Behaviour of gardai 'strikes' at democracy
Saturday May 11 2002
The union said it was "deeply concerned" at the treatment of Irish Independent photographer Stephen Humphreys who was hurt after being surrounded by gardai who stopped him photographing the rally.
The NUJ was also concerned that gardai charged the photographer with alleged public order offences, charges that would be vigorously contested.
"This was an appalling attack which strikes at the core of democracy," NUJ Irish secretary Eoin Ronayne said.
Mr Ronayne said the union had been concerned for some time at the disregard shown by some members of the Garda Siochana to journalists presenting the NUJ press card. He said it was fortunate there had been a media presence on Monday otherwise there may have been attempts to discredit the claims of protesters.
The union also called for the Garda Siochana to be brought under the remit of the Freedom of Information Act.
"Law-abiding gardai have nothing to fear. The army is covered by the act and this has posed no threat to the security of the State. A transparent, accountable police force would be in the interest of all citizens," NUJ organiser Seamus Dooley said.
Mary Maher, chairwoman of the Irish executive council of the NUJ, said it was ironic that just three days after World Press Freedom Day working journalists should find themselves attacked by people charged with protecting democracy.
"Those involved in Monday's attack on peaceful protesters bring shame on the force," she said.
- Eugene Moloney
