Speaking at a Fine Gael event in Dublin this evening, Enda Kenny said he was "dismayed" at the news.

The book was defaced by a member of the public at Drogheda Garda Station on Tuesday.

Since then, the book has been removed and it's reported that the person responsible could potentially face criminal charges.

Arriving at the Fine Gael presidential dinner in Dublin this evening, the Taoiseach has spoken out about the desecration of the the book of condolences for the late Garda Tony Golden.

The Taoiseach also used this opportunity to discuss the recent opinion polls, reported here, as well as upcoming tax policies that will be designed to bring 75,000 emigrants back home.

Garda Golden was gunned down in the line of duty on Sunday as he assisted a woman during a domestic incident in Omeath, Co. Louth, and he has since been hailed by the Garda Commissioner as a hero.