Funding could be given to TDs and Senators to purchase security equipment such as CCTV, pending a Garda review on security and safety measures.
In light of heightened social media attacks and politicians being verbally abused on the streets, TDs and Senators will receive security briefings later this month, the Irish Mirror understands.
It comes after a number of Ministers including Health Minister Stephen Donnelly and Finance Minister Paschal Donohoe have been given Garda drivers following escalating tension from some members of the public.
In an email sent to all TDs and Senators, and seen by the Irish Mirror, it states a Divisional Crime Prevention Officer will carry out the safety and security measures for all members on February 16 and 23.
They have also been offered a safety review of their constituency offices by gardai.
Further briefings will be arranged for political staff at a future date, the email states.
Fianna Fáil Minister of State Anne Rabbitte has recently spoken of how she will no longer attend her constituency office alone after she was “detained” at one of her offices by a man annoyed about the wearing of face masks.
Following the Garda security reviews, the Houses of the Oireachtas Commission will assess the outcome of the review and it’s understood discussions have taken place about money being made available to TDs constituency offices for CCTV, a source said.
The Houses of the Oireachtas Commission is made up of cross-party TDs and Senators and oversees the running of the Oireachtas.
Another source said funding could be made available for other security costs that may be incurred and have been advised by the gardai to implement.
When asked about the funding and security briefing, a spokeswoman for the Oireachtas said: “The Houses of the Oireachtas reviews security and safety measures on an ongoing basis – current efforts fall within that context and aim to ensure Members, their staff and constituents can work and engage in a safe and secure environment.”
It’s also understood that gardai will also consider the safety of politicians’ homes.
Gardai have previously had to call to the homes of Health Minister Stephen Donnelly and Tanaiste Leo Varadkar following protests.
Officials from the Oireachtas are also said to be in discussion with social media companies as some politicians have expressed concern about their home address being published online.
On foot of a security review by Garda Commissioner Drew Harris, it was advised after Christmas that Minister Paschal Donohoe, Stephen Donnelly and Public Expenditure Minister Michael McGrath should get Garda protection drivers.
However, it is proposed now that all Cabinet Ministers should also get Garda protection.
