Amnesty International Ireland today stated concern at reports and video footage of what appears to be a private security service operation yesterday carrying out an eviction of housing rights protesters from a building on North Frederick Street, Dublin, and the policing of protesters outside the building during the eviction.
“What we have seen raises concerns about possible excessive and unnecessary use of force against what appear to be peaceful protestors. Whenever the lawful use of force by An Garda Síochána is unavoidable, it must be used with restraint and in proportion to the seriousness of the law enforcement objective,” said Fiona Crowley, Research and Legal Manager for Amnesty International Ireland.
“Gardaí should only facilitate and support the actions of private security personnel where they are lawful and do not involve excessive force. In this regard, it is of concern that the private security personnel reportedly failed to display identity badges as required under section 30 of the Private Security Services Act.
“We urge that these events be investigated as a matter of urgency to ascertain if human rights abuses were committed, and if so, ensure appropriate action.”