Politicians from across the spectrum have joined in condemning today’s shooting dead of a member of the Garda Síochána.
The Taoiseach, Mr Bertie Ahern, offered his sympathy to the family of the victim.
"It is unfortunately a reminder of the very real danger that members of the Garda Síochána regularly face in attempting to safeguard the community from the activities of criminals," he said.
The President, Mrs Mary McAleese also expressed her sincere condolences to the man’s family. She said she had been in contact with Garda Commissioner, Pat Byrne, regarding "the loss of a brave and committed colleague".
The Minister for Justice, Mr John O’Donoghue, said he learned of the garda’s tragic death "with great sadness".
The leader of Fine Gael, Mr Michael Noonan, and the Labour spokesman on justice, Mr Brendan Howlin, expressed their condolences to the family and colleagues of the dead man.
Mr Noonan said he died "in the course of his duty on behalf of the people".
"This shooting is a reminder to all of us of the risks society expect the gardaí to take day-in, day-out, to protect society," Mr Howlin said.
