Bernard Durkan (Kildare North, Fine Gael)
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224. To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality the extent to which sufficient provision continues to be made to intercept and prevent suspected mail bombing attempts; if he is satisfied with security procedure in this regard; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12375/19]

Charles Flanagan (Laois, Fine Gael)
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Protecting the State and the people from terrorism is the highest priority for the Government. 

The expert assessment of the terrorist threat to Ireland is that, while an attack is possible, it is not considered likely. The authorities here remain nonetheless very vigilant and the level of threat is kept under constant and active review by An Garda Síochána.

The Garda Authorities supported by the Defence Forces have in place robust response and prevention capabilities and the authorities here work continually with their international counterparts to identify and manage threats.

The discovery in London and Glasgow last week of a number of suspicious postal packages containing small incendiary devices is a matter of serious concern.  I commend the emergency services there for their swift response to these threats. 

This was a reckless and cowardly attack and I condemn in the strongest possible terms the perpetrators.

Cooperation between An Garda Síochána and their counterparts in the PSNI, as well as the British Security Services and the (London) Metropolitan Police, in countering security and terrorist threats, is a priority for Ireland and continues to be excellent. They are primary partners for us in this field, especially in terms of intelligence co-operation and information exchange. 

This positive relationship at all levels should remain positive and be enhanced, where possible, even with the advent of the UK’s departure from the EU.