V concerned by Govt Comms on decision to deploy Defence Forces #FuelProtests -Yes, Army previously deployed in Aid to Civil Authority role to strikes -However, this is first time in history of State Defence Forces deployed in AID TO CIVIL POWER role to deal with civilian protests

I think this concern is overstated. The army has specialist vehicles designed to move armoured vehicles known as DROPS. The Gardai don’t. If the Gardai do the enforcement and arrests if necessary and unarmed soldiers move tractors blocking fuel depots I for one am fine with that.

@caulmick

Very concerned at how the Minister for Justice and the Government in general has used the threat of of seizure and damage to property (the trucks and tractors that are the livelihood of protesters) by the Defence Forces to bully. Bad communication that damages the DF.

Every step of the way so far, Govt response has exhibited extremely poor judgement

It shows the failure of this goverment

Tom we need to be honest the entire government are serving bankers. The state colonized our towns, brainwashed our kids, concealed excess deaths, & crush us with austerity. The State are waging a hybrid War against the Irish people.

@MykeVw And what’s your answer? Country can’t be held to ransom by a self-appointed mob

@MykeVw Garda response

@caulmick Foynes

Micheál Martin is a middle manager, not a leader. He has to be seen to be complying with EU standards of population control before we get the presidency..

You’re a disgrace. You will lose your seat in the senate for this populism.

It's to use the heavy lifting capacity given its large vehicles in these protests. Stop scaremongering.

What’s the alternative here Tom? This is very serious now it’s a relatively small number of people causing massive disruption.

Garda response - as in every other incidence of public disorder (if it arises) since foundation of Republic

Don't know why you are susprised Tom. You have witnessed what the Uniparty have done to Disabled community for decades. We watched while they removed children from lists ensuring certain death. These are not people of any human integrity and empathy,.

Their warning us behave or else....

@Roisin_Ni These aren’t protests Tom. They are illegal blockades of essentials.

Frozen bank accounts and YEARS of lawfare Still no accountability

It would be quite irresponsible to let the 'protestors' to close down emergency path ways, fuel and vital supplies. Why do they not do a pedestrian march?

Should be a Garda response

Did they any of these stop vital food and medical supplies? Thought so.

You think blockading fuel depots in order to shut down the country is not an emergency demanding firm Govt action? You'd just let anarchists keep blocking fuel supplies, & do what? You're a typical hurler on the ditch! Govt is also negotiating with rep bodies. @rtenews @rtetwip

@DillyBass It's a disgraceful action by a shockingly bad political class

We have children at cabinet level They think this is an action movie or something

There goes @OCallaghanJim @fiannafailparty leadership ambitions Not fit to be Justice/Home Affairs Minister nevermind the country! Should resign for even making the ridiculous incendiary statement

@williamhboney1

there is a big difference blocking O connell street and another blocking fuel from going around the country

@CuChulainnnnnnn Well said Tom 👍🏻

Well said Tom The Government ministers and Advisers haven't a clue or understand the ministerial appointments they hold and how to use them.

Emergency services are running low on fuel, food security is being affected, hospitals reporting people unable to get to appointments. When vulnerable people are impacted, yes, the democratically elected government must use proportionate authority to ensure their safety.

@caulmick Well said.

Triple lock would stop that. Better get UN approval first.

Country before belligerents

Good historical point Tom, but is it likely; A) Resources issue, covering such a wide number of locations. B) DF likely have proportionally more HGV drivers than Gardai. ‘Protesting’ tactics changed a lot over past years especially as non-aligned groups seek to exploit “A”.

Our Army has been used in Aid of the Civil power many times before. Escorting cash and joint border patrols. And then there was Ballinamore, among others.....

You’re mixing up ATCP Ops & Aid to Civil Authority Ops - Respectfully disagree Patrick

@ewoodphoto Ehhh no ATCP is supporting AGS who are the Civil Power. ATCA is supporting other state bodies such as HSE, Local Authorities, etc.

@ewoodphoto You’re missing the point - Respectfully disagree Cahir

Tá an ceart agat, a Teaim. You are right, Tom.