Why do the N. Ireland police still carry guns?

Question

If the troubles are over, do the PSNI still need side arms.

Answer 1

Troubles never over. Why are we still in Iraq, even tho the war ended years ago

Answer 2

I was wondering that myself. The trouble is TECHNICALLY over, but nothing really ever ends.

Answer 3

Because all police officers should carry/use firearms.

Answer 4

Because they police. Police officers have to deal with the low-lows on the socio-economic food chain, believe me these people are crazy......One of them might get crazy over future dogmatic tensions and try to take someone out. They need to be able to take this crazy dude out.......

Answer 5

Even though the troubles are over, the paramilitaries are still very active.

They still collect protection money,rob banks and deal drugs, they were then and still are very much wanna be gangsters, if a copper got in their way they wouldn't hesitate to shoot them and as such the coppers need to be able to shoot back.

Answer 6

To think that the bad guys no longer have, or are willing to use, guns is foolish indeed.

I would rather the police have the weapons necessary to defend the public, should the need arise. Wouldn't you?