A TASER is any member of a family of the most commercially recognized brand of electroshock guns. It is an incapacitant weapon used for subduing a person by firing something which administers electric shock, disrupting superficial muscle functions. Modern TASER-type weapons fire small dart-like electrodes with attached metal wires that connect to the gun, propelled by small gas charges
In September 2004, the Home Secretary authorised chief officers of police forces in England and Wales to make TASER available to authorised firearms officers for use in situations where a firearms authority has been granted.
In June 2005, the Chief Constable informed the Policing Board of his intention to introduce TASER for limited use by PSNI specialist firearms officers. In March 2006, the Policing Board undertook a consultation exercise on the Chief Constable’s proposal, during which it received written views from a range of interested parties. Given the concerns raised through this initial consultation, the Policing Board called on the PSNI to undertake an equality screening exercise. The Policing Board also requested its Human Rights Advisors to provide their advice on the human rights implications of TASER. On the conclusion of the PSNI’s consultation, the Policing Board will consider its outcome and the advice of its Human Rights Advisors, as well as any other submissions, in deciding whether to endorse the Chief Constable’s decision.