The proposed changes will also apply to the ramming of Garda vehicles.
Longer jail terms are to be brought in for people who assault members of An Garda Síochána.
The proposed changes will also apply to the ramming of garda vehicles.
Proposals being brought to Cabinet by Justice Minister Simon Harris would increase the maximum jail term for assaulting or obstructing a garda from seven 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.
The extension of the penalty for assault causing harm will be part of the Criminal Justice Bill currently making its way through the Oireachtas.
Increased jail terms for assaulting members of emergency services are welcome, but it's not enough.
That's according to the Garda Representative Association, which says the plans fall short of what Gardaí have called for.
Westmeath rep for the GRA, Conor Staunton, says a minimum mandatory custodial sentence must be implemented:
Minister Harris says while current legislation is robust the laws need to be updated.
President of the GRA, Brendan O'Connor, says ramming Garda cars is a growing problem:
Westmeath Man Named Supreme Milk Quality Champion
Offaly Councillor Sees "Great Potential" For Village
Legislation Providing Paid Leave For Early Pregnancy Loss To Go To Cabinet
Offaly Councillor Seeks More Roads Funding In North Of County
Revenue Seize Contraband Worth Over €153k
Plans Lodged For New 24-Hour Automated Car Wash in Laois
Westmeath School Joins Expanded Online Admissions System
Offaly Soccer Club Seeks Green Light For Major Facilities Expansion
Laois Senator Warns Midlands STEM Progress At Risk Without New Funding
Offaly ICSA Sheep Chair Hits Out At Factories Over Lamb Prices
Calls For New Affordable Housing Strategy In Offaly
"Every Parent's Worst Nightmare" - Three Westmeath People Die In Malaga Crash
Offaly Community Group Points Finger At Renewable Energy Operators Over Road Damage
Defence Forces To Carry Out Training Exercise In Offaly
Gardai Ask Public For Help In Locating Missing Laois Teenager
Midlands School Raises Over €20k To Support Education In Uganda
Hauliers Call For Incremental End To Fuel Price Supports
Two Laois Designers Selected For National Design & Craft Gallery Exhibition
Ireland Prepares For EU Presidency With Increased Security
Fatal Westmeath Helicopter Crash Caused By Failed Training Manoeuvre