Enda Kenny has today refuted the notion put to him that he needs Garda protection from water protesters.
Speaking in the Dáil today, Socialist Party TD Joe Higgings pointed out to the Taoiseach that he needs ‘dozens of Gardai’ to bring him safely in and out of venues and events.
Mr. Higgins added that the Taoiseach ‘has angered so many with his austerity agenda, and particularly with the water tax.’
The Taoiseach replied that ‘Where I come from, Deputy Higgins, we are well able to look after ourselves.’
Yet, over the last few days, the Taoiseach has indeed required a large Garda presence at two events he attended. He experienced intense heckling in Galway, and a group of protesters attempted to block his exit from a sports venue in Santry.
Deputy Higgins added that the ‘anti-water charges demonstrations will continue and intensify if the Government continues with its policy of sending water bills over the new few months.’