Garda Public Order Unit

For protection in violent situations, an additional layer of flame-retardant body armor designed for public order use, complete with shoulder pads may be worn along with shin and forearm protectors.

[9][10] As with ordinary uniformed members of the Garda Síochána, the Public Order Unit do not routinely carry firearms, relying instead on conventional, non-lethal weapons such as pepper spray and batons.

Full-length riot shields are also used during potentially violent confrontations where there is large hostile crowds, or the risk of thrown or flammable projectiles.

[citation needed] The Public Order Unit does not operate any specialist armoured vehicles, instead relying on a fleet of refitted commercial vans.

[12] In some other cases the Public Order unit has been deployed on more frequent or recurring basis during times of increased risk of disturbances.