Garda aircraft provided "valuable" support during the Love Ulster riots in Dublin last month and were used to photograph suspects, the Garda insisted today.
A statement issued by the Garda Press Office this morning said one fixed-wing aircraft and one helicopter were used on the day of the march, February 25th.
"From 7am both aircraft were functional and provided air cover for the convoy of Love Ulster coaches as they made their way from the Border to Dublin city," Superintendent Kevin Donohoe said.
"The fixed wing continued throughout the day to provide air support for the ground operation, utilising all its technical equipment onboard.
"Some photographic and video footage from the fixed wing has assisted in identifying some of those involved in the various public order incidents which occurred throughout the day."
He described reports that a Garda helicopter was unable to attend the march because of a fatal crash and a hoax call as "grossly inaccurate". He said one of the two Garda helicopters was undergoing a routine service while the other had to be brought back to Baldonnel Aerodrome during the disturbances after the pilot "reported a vibration which he wasn't happy with".
The craft was out of commission between 11.20am and 3.40pm, he said.
"It returned to the city centre area, once again providing valuable air support for the ground operation," Supt Donohoe added.
Following the riot there was criticism from political parties that gardaí had not been properly prepared for the days events and possible trouble.