Ban on wearing masks

Justice Minister Helen McEntee is proposing a total ban on the wearing of masks and balaclavas at protests to discourage intimidation, particularly in light of recent violent demonstrations targeting asylum seeker accommodation and the homes of politicians such as Taoiseach Simon Harris. The legislation aims to empower Gardaí to direct protestors to remove masks if they are deemed to be intended for intimidation. McEntee is currently consulting with the Attorney General and Garda Commissioner on the practicalities of enforcing this law. Recent incidents have seen masked individuals participating in anti-immigration protests and targeting government officials, raising concerns about public safety. The proposed ban comes after rising tensions and violent protests, including significant unrest in Dublin. Critics argue that defining what constitutes intimidation will be a challenge in implementing the new law.