President highlights risks taken by gardaí

President Mary McAleese led widespread condemnation of yesterday's shooting.

"Once again we see the risks which members of An Garda Síochána are exposed to in the line of duty, and the enormous bravery they demonstrate in responding to those challenges," said the President.

Mrs McAleese said she had spoken to Garda Commissioner Noel Conroy, and that she wished the injured officer a swift recovery.

Minister for Justice Brian Lenihan said the incident was "deplorable", and was a "stark reminder" of the dangers faced by members of the force.

"This incident draws attention again to a very serious phenomenon we have in relation to the usage of firearms in criminal activities in this city.

"It's worth noting that the development of firearm-related crime in this city has been built up around the drugs trade."

The Minister added that gardaí would spare no effort in capturing those responsible.

Fine Gael justice spokesman Charles Flanagan said it was "a shocking incident in which a brave garda was shot simply for doing his duty".

"It demonstrates the scale of the menace to the State and to innocent citizens posed by organised gangland crime. These criminals believe they are untouchable."

He added: "But the situation is now so bad that frontline gardaí are also regarded as legitimate targets by lethal criminals, even unarmed members of the Garda Traffic Corps."

Mr Flanagan called for an urgent programme of action from the Government to deal with gun crime.

Labour's justice spokesman Pat Rabbitte said he had sent his party's support to Commissioner Conroy.

"This shooting of a young motorcycle garda in the course of his duty is appalling and reprehensible. This outrageous attack highlights again how members of the Garda Síochána are asked to risk their personal safety in the interests of serving the public."

Green Party justice spokesman Ciarán Cuffe said he was appalled at "this act of savagery" against a member of the force.

Sinn Féin's group leader on Dublin City Council Christy Burke suggested the "vicious" attack pointed to an escalation of crime in the city.