Justice Minister has praised the work of security
partners, which has led to the interception of a significant bomb
in County Monaghan.
The Minister said: I unequivocally condemn those responsible for
this planned attack and the intent behind it. There can be no
justification for actions designed to endanger lives and spread
fear within our communities.
I am extremely grateful to An Garda Síochána, the Irish Defence
Forces Bomb Disposal Team, the Police Service of Northern Ireland
(PSNI) and UK security partners for their swift and professional
response in intercepting and making safe this significant
explosive device before it could cause harm.
This was a sophisticated, viable device that was reportedly
completed and ready for use. The successful operation has almost
certainly prevented serious injury or loss of life and is a clear
demonstration of the professionalism, dedication and
effectiveness of those charged with keeping the public safe.
The incident, together with the recent attacks on police stations
in Lurgan and Dunmurry, highlights the continuing threat posed by
a small number of individuals who remain intent on causing harm,
targeting the police and undermining community safety. These
events serve as a stark reminder that the threat from terrorism
has not disappeared.
However, they also demonstrate the strength of the close and
enduring cooperation between policing, security and justice
partners North and South. Those intent on causing harm do not
recognise borders, and our efforts to prevent, detect and disrupt
such activity must continue to transcend them. While the
interception of this device is reassuring and reflects the
effectiveness of our security partners, we must not become
complacent. We must continue to support the capabilities,
partnerships and operational cooperation necessary to identify
and disrupt threats before they can impact our communities.
The Minister said that addressing the vulnerability of young
people susceptible to radicalisation must continue to be a
priority for government and society.
She added: Those who continue to pursue terrorism have
nothing to offer society but fear, destruction and misery. Their
actions have been repeatedly rejected by our communities, which
have chosen peace, democracy and the rule of law over violence
and intimidation. The safety and security of the public remains
my overriding priority, and I will continue to support the work
of our policing and security partners in their efforts to keep
people safe and protect our communities.
