FG: Republic ill-prepared for terrorist attack
Ireland is no better prepared for a terrorist attack now than it was before the 9/11 atrocity because emergency planning is split between different Government departments, it was claimed tonight.
Fine Gael’s defence spokesman Billy Timmins said the lack of extra funding for anti-terrorism was very worrying in the light of recent comments regarding Ireland’s security.
Last night Islamic fundamentalist and lawyer Anjem Choudary said Ireland was a legitimate target for terrorism because the Government allowed US troops to refuel at Shannon Airport.
A few hours earlier, Scotland Yard chief Sir Ian Blair warned Dublin was as much at risk from a major terrorist attack as any other large international city.
Mr Timmins said: “There is no indication that extra funding has been allocated to enhance our anti-terrorism measures and that is very worrying in light of recent comments.
“However, I am particularly concerned about our ability to respond to a national disaster such as a terrorist attack.
“Our emergency planning procedures are split between a number of disparate Government departments despite a recommendation that a single emergency planning authority be formed.
“Legislation must be enacted to form this authority as soon as possible,” he said.
In order to deal with potential terrorist attacks, Mr Timmins said there must be measures to reduce the risk of an attack by improving Ireland’s intelligence capability and entry and exit controls.
The country also needs early warning systems, communications control, efficient equipment and trained personnel to ensure readiness for any act of terrorism, he said.
Mr Timmins said the response to an attack must be speedy and appropriate, with effectiveness improved by regular training exercises, while recovery in the aftermath should include a range of activities to restore of normality.
“The Government must now ensure that our policy in dealing with the terrorist threat is underpinned by legislation and the necessary funding.”
He also said recent comments by Sinn Féin and some independent politicians with regard to attacks on US military aircraft did not assist stability and security in Ireland.
“Despite the motives behind a criminal act, no member of the Dáil should condone and encourage criminal activity,” he warned.
