The Defence Forces can confirm that an incident occurred last night at Dún Uí Mhaoilíosa, Renmore, Co. Galway, where shots were fired by on-duty personnel. This action was taken in strict accordance with established force protection protocols after a Defence Forces Chaplain was stabbed by a male civilian while awaiting entry to the barracks.
Upon witnessing the assault, the soldiers on duty responded swiftly and appropriately to the immediate threat, using necessary force to ensure the safety of all personnel and to secure the area. This included the firing of live ammunition as Warning Shots. The assailant was promptly detained and handed over to An Garda Síochána upon their arrival, and a full investigation into the incident is now being conducted by An Garda Síochána.
The injured Defence Forces member received immediate first aid from Defence Forces personnel on duty before being transported to hospital for further treatment. We are relieved to report that while the victim’s injuries are serious, they are not life-threatening.
Chief of Staff of Óglaigh na hÉireann, Lieutenant General Seán Clancy, firstly extended his best wishes to the injured Chaplain, saying, “Our thoughts are with our injured comrade, and we wish him a full and speedy recovery. The well-being of our personnel is our utmost priority, and we will continue to support him during this time.”
Lieutenant General Clancy also commended the actions of the soldiers on duty, stating, “The swift and decisive response by our personnel last night was exemplary, and in keeping with the highest standards of the Defence Forces and our values. Their professionalism ensured that a dangerous situation was quickly brought under control, protecting the lives of others in the vicinity. There is no doubt that their actions were critical in preventing further harm or loss of life.”
He added, “We are grateful to An Garda Síochána for their rapid response and ongoing assistance in the investigation. We will continue to cooperate fully with their efforts to bring this matter to a thorough and just conclusion.”
The Defence Forces remain committed to ensuring the safety and security of all its members and will continue to act in accordance with our duty to protect those under our care.
ENDS
Notes to Editors;
As this is now an ongoing criminal investigation all queries relating to the investigation should be directed to the Garda Press Office.
