Legal Guidelines:

Since the gardai now constantly patrol the area of the pipeline route and refinery, the odds are that you will meet or come into contact with them if you are around the area. Some general guidelines are given below.

General: You are not required to carry ID. Don't carry incriminating objects (drugs/'weapons'). You can only be asked for name and address if you are suspected or known to have committed a crime. Say nothing until you know what section they are claiming to charge you with.

If arrested: Make sure to get the arresting officer's name/number and the exact reason/section under which you are being arrested. Other than name and address, you don't need to give ANY information (DOB/nationality). Insist on being seen by a doctor if you were beaten or injured by the Gardai (can be used as evidence in court). Don't sign anything other than your list of belongings. Even if interviewed, you have the right to remain silent or to say "no comment". When detained, you must be issued with a leaflet outlining your legal rights – you can ask for your own solicitor at any time.

For Drivers: If you are stopped, question why (under what section, get garda name etc). Make sure your vehicle is road worthy (tyre tread/road tax/insurance/lights). Under road traffic act (RTA) you aren't required to exit or unlock any part of your vehicle. You can pass the drivers licence & insurance papers out of a gap in the window. If you don't have your documents, you can produce them within 10 days at your local station. Passengers aren't required to give any info. Gardai have no right to search your vehicle (under the RTA) or ask where you are going.

Stop & Search: Gardai can only search u or yr vehicle without a warrant if they use the following: Offences against the state act, misuse of drugs act, criminal law act or offensive weapons act.

Legal support: 0851141170 : Alan Gannon solicitor 094 962 0007