Taoiseach Micheál Martin has warned that bomb threats targeting RTÉ and other media organisations highlight the growing security challenges facing Ireland as it prepares to take on a significant role on the European stage.
Media organisations across Ireland and Britain were evacuated today following a series of bomb threats, prompting a major security response. RTÉ staff were evacuated from the broadcaster's Donnybrook campus before gardaí declared the scene safe.
The threats come at a particularly sensitive time for Ireland, with the country preparing to host major European gatherings next week, including the European Political Community meeting and an Informal European Council, as part of its preparations for its EU Presidency.
Speaking about the incident, Mr Martin said gardaí, the Defence Forces, cyber security and aviation authorities are working alongside European counterparts to identify those responsible.
While it remains unclear whether the threats were the work of individuals or a coordinated group, the Taoiseach said the Government was determined to establish who was behind the activity and hold those responsible accountable.
He said Ireland must remain alert to the threat of hybrid attacks, warning that relatively simple actions can cause widespread disruption, create fear and undermine the normal functioning of society.
Mr Martin said the security risks facing Europe are significantly higher than they have been for some time, adding that Ireland must recognise the scale of the threats experienced by countries across the Baltic and Nordic regions.
He said the Government had been conscious of these risks in the lead-up to Ireland's EU Presidency, particularly given the importance of ensuring the country can safely host major international meetings and visiting world leaders.
Next week's European gatherings are expected to bring an unprecedented number of prime ministers to Ireland at the same time, requiring extensive security arrangements.
The Taoiseach stressed that public safety remained the Government's overriding priority, while urging the public and organisations to remain calm as investigations continue.
Tánaiste Simon Harris described the threats against media organisations as extremely concerning, saying any attack or threat of attack on the media represents a threat to democracy.
He confirmed that gardaí, the Defence Forces and cyber security experts are working together to investigate the incidents, with both himself and the Taoiseach receiving updates.
Mr Harris said the events serve as a reminder that Ireland is not immune to hybrid, cyber or wider security threats.
With Ireland preparing to welcome European leaders for major political gatherings ahead of its EU Presidency, the incidents have underlined the importance of national security and preparedness.
He said identifying those responsible, alongside protecting the safety and wellbeing of everyone affected, would remain a priority in the hours ahead.
