Car bomb victim in emergency surgery
A police officer in the North is now undergoing emergency surgery after a bomb went off under his car.
Dissident republicans are being blamed for the attack in Co Antrim this morning.
“Today’s attack is an act of senseless violence,” said Taoiseach Brian Cowen.
“The people of Ireland have clearly demonstrated their wish for peace and to work through the democratic process.
“This criminal action by a tiny minority is an attack on all of the people of this country.
“They will not succeed in deflecting us from the path of peace on this island.
“I look forward to seeing the perpetrators of this heinous act being brought swiftly to justice.”
Putting his current personal problems to one side, the North's First Minister Peter Robinson joined Deputy First Minister Martin McGuiness to condemn the attack.
Democratic Unionist Party leader Mr Robinson said: “This is a cowardly, evil act against a man committed to defending the free society we all enjoy.
“I have said in the past that those who perpetrate such attacks will not succeed in returning Northern Ireland to the dark days of the past. I remain steadfastly committed to upholding that promise. There is only one path forward - that of peace and democracy.”
Sinn Féin representative Mr McGuinness added: “The man injured today in this attack contributes positively to the community.
“He is an active member of the GAA and an Irish speaker. He serves the community as a member of the PSNI.
“The people who carried out this attack make no contribution. These actions serve no purpose and will not further any cause.
“My thoughts are with the injured man and his family. I pray he makes a full recovery.”
