WHY EXACTLY DID OFFICERS GET INVOLVED?

Calls for Garda explanation over ATM glitch action

- EITHNE DODD

AN Garda Siochana must explain which law allowed them to stop people using bank machines, a rights group claimed yesterday.

Officers blocked access to the Bank of Ireland ATMs after a technical glitch let customers withdraw more money than was in their accounts.

Gardai claimed they acted after receiving 40 calls across four of their regional control rooms on Tuesday.

They said some of these related to public order offences, one was over an assault or robbery and the decision to deploy officers was made locally on "case-by-case" basis.

However, ICCL's Liam t Herrick said there must be a clear legal basis if gardai are involved in an action that restricts people's rights, movement or ability to access finance.