Tony McLoughlin (Sligo-North Leitrim, Fine Gael)
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262. To ask the Minister for Justice and Equality in view of the recent increase in the number of explosive devices, such as pipe bombs, being found in County Leitrim and its environs, the action An Garda Síochána has taken, or is taking, to prevent this type of device from being constructed or brought into the county; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [19791/15]

Frances Fitzgerald (Dublin Mid West, Fine Gael)
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An Garda Síochána are currently investigating an incident which occurred last week in the area referred to by the Deputy. Two persons were arrested having been found in possession of improvised explosive devices (IEDs) and a firearm and ammunition. One of the persons arrested has appeared before the Special Criminal Court charged with a number of offences. Garda investigations in respect of the other person arrested are continuing.

There are substantial Garda operations in place to tackle the use of IEDs with operational strategies very firmly focused on disrupting the use of IEDs and bringing those involved before the Courts. Operation Enchant is the ongoing national Garda operation which coordinates investigations into the manufacture, supply and deployment of IEDs. Operation Enchant incorporates a co-ordination unit comprising personnel from the Special Detective Unit, Organised Crime Unit and Garda National Drugs Unit. This unit works closely with each Senior Investigating Officer in relation to each IED incident and also with the Garda Technical Bureau. The unit also works closely with the Garda Analysis Service and the National Criminal Intelligence Unit amongst others and assists local investigators in their investigations including, where appropriate, interviewing arrested persons and conducting searches.

I am informed by the Garda authorities that the number of recorded incidents associated with Operation Enchant for County Leitrim comprises less than one percent of the national total. I can assure the Deputy that all incidents involving IEDs are treated as a priority and investigated thoroughly by the Garda authorities.