Ireland Is Always Vulnerable To Terrorism Threats, Harris

Terrorism threats have always been thrown at Ireland, no matter if they are domestic or international, said Simon Harris.

Taoiseach Simon Harris responded with this statement when questions were asked of him by the media about Garda Commissioner Drew Harris writing to Minister for Justice Helen Entree for advice.

(Also read: Man Arrested For Threat On Simon Harris, Taoiseach’s Home)

Advice was asked for the threat levels that are currently being targeted at Ireland, coming from violent political extremists. They are expected to be from moderate to substantial levels.

Talking about the terrorism threats Ireland is facing at the moment, Mr Harris spoke to the media in Carlow today, saying that he cannot disclose the measures being taken for the issue. Gardai would take any appropriate action and the briefings given to them from higher authorities regarding confidential security plans.

Terrorism threats during general elections

Upon asked whether he is afraid of the threats that are directed towards Irish politicians, especially for the run-up to a possible general election, he said that he does not want anyone to harm the individuality of anyone in the country, be it a politician or any common man, he confessed.

He added, “I haven’t detected any significant shift from the people of Ireland right across the country, and I think it is important to say that”. Simon Harris has been receiving various threats before, both to himself and his family, for which he took support from the State Security Services.

He knew the importance of threats since they cannot be ignored at any cost, as it is a matter of national security and every citizen of the state. “We’re not immune to threats from extremism or terrorism, domestic or international”, he cited.

He is confident that Gardai would conduct all the necessary action plans to ensure a smooth general election. He emphasised that Gardai would be given all possible support and resources to enforce the laws in a better and stricter way.

Any threats, either to public or political figures, would not go unnoticed and a tougher legislation would be enforced for the said purpose, he guaranteed.

He also warranted that the elections would take place in a safe environment, he ensured that all the candidates would be safe to perform all actions of the democratic process.

Regarding the terrorism threats, An Garda Siochana said that threats are always there, be it overall moderate to extreme level, and a terrorist attack is also highly likely. However, the police are always working around the clock to nullify all possible terrorist attacks.

They informed the media that, “Any change to the threat level from a specific subcategory and/or group is communicated by the Commissioner directly to the Minister for Justice”.

Simon Harris acknowledged that Ireland is vulnerable to terrorism threats and that it is a dire need of time that quick action is taken to indicate to the enemies that Ireland is not oblivious, particularly in times of upcoming elections.