Proposals being brought to Cabinet by Justice Minister Simon Harris would increase the maximum jail term for assaulting or obstructing a Garda from 7 to 12 years.
The measure would also apply to other emergency service staff - including hospital staff, prison workers, members of the defence forces, fire brigade or ambulance staff.
Minister Harris says while current legislation is robust the laws need to be updated. "We should remember we still live in a country where there is huge support for the Gardaí," he said.
"We live in a country where confidence levels in our police force are above that of most other European countries. We also need to live in a country where we don't, as politicians, wring our hands and condemn - though condemning is important. We actually need to update the laws to support the Gardaí," he added.
Minister Harris will also bring a measure to Cabinet to again extend the licence for alcohol to be sold outdoors.
