There has been fresh controversy in the United Kingdom about plans by the Police to deploy Taser guns more widely to protect officers. Civil Liberties groups, including Amnesty International, have expressed concern.
(See BBC Wales: (voir le site)
The Taser was introduced in control circumstances several years ago and at the time its deployment (together with other less lethal protective measures such as the replacement of CS Spray with PAVA) in Wales and the Isle of Man was welcomed by the Celtic League, who saw it as a more suitable protective alternative to deploying officers with firearms.
See Celtic News: (voir le site)
The renewed controversy surrounds a decision to extend its use beyond specialised firearms officers and units. However, despite the disquiet it seems inconceivable that senior police officers will deploy the weapon to officers who are inadequately trained. In the circumstances the concerns seem misguided
The question that must be posed is what alternatives - other than firearms - exist to protect police officers from violence and life-threatening situations for themselves or members of the public?
At the present time (and until further advances in technology bring forward alternatives) equipping police officers, who are suitably trained, with devices such as Taser stun guns or PAVA seems to be a prudent step to protect both police and public.
J B Moffatt Director of Information Celtic League
01/09/07
■