Ireland is not ‘immune’ from terrorist attacks, says Fitzgerald

The Irish Government is taking all "necessary steps" to counteract any potential terrorist attacks, the Minister for Justice has said following the Brussels bombings on Tuesday.

At least 34 people have been killed and many more injured after coordinated bomb attacks on the main airport and the Metro system in Brussels.

Francis Fitzgerald said An Garda Síochána was liaising with the relevant authorities in Brussels and international partners in the aftermath of the explosions.

“While it remains the case that there is no specific information about a threat to this country, as a country with the same values as our European partners, we are not immune,” she said.

“Today’s events in Brussels are another dreadful reminder of the savagery of terrorists who hold our values and democracy itself in deadly contempt.”

Ms Fitzgerald said the threat level would be kept under review.

“We have to bear in mind too that an attack on our European neighbours is an attack on us all,” she said.

“We know from the dark history of this island that, while, despite the best efforts of police and security services, terrorists can succeed from time to time in carrying out attacks, ultimately democracy and our values will prevail.”

The Government released a statement to confirm the gardaí were co-operating closely with international security and intelligence.

“The activities of a small number of people based here and whose behaviour may be of concern will continue to be monitored closely,” it said.

The Dáil held a minute’s silence in memory of the victims of the Brussels bombings and the Donegal drowning tragedy.

Acting Taoiseach Enda Kenny told the Dáil no Irish citizens had been injured or killed in the Brussels explosions “as far as we aware”.

“These acts were utterly indiscriminate and I condemn them in the strongest possible terms - as I also condemn the attacks in Mali last night,” he said.

“I understand from our ambassador in Brussels that, as far as we aware, no Irish citizen has been involved here with the tragic circumstances.

“But we can’t be certain yet as to the full impact of what has happened.”

Mr Kenny expressed deep sympathy to the victims of the “horrific” bomb attacks.

President Michael D Higgins also paid tribute to the families of the victims and all those affected by the attacks.

“These attacks strike at the fundamental right of all to live in peace. These actions must not undermine the will of all Europeans to live and work together,” he said.

Minister for Foreign Affairs Charlie Flanagan Irish citizens in Belgium should be "extremely cautious" and closely follow instructions from local authorities.

The Minister said he was shocked and horrified by the events in Brussels.

“The consular section of my department, in conjunction with our Embassy in Belgium, are working with the local authorities,” he said.

Mr Flanagan said anyone with concerns for family and friends should ring (01) 4180200.

“We will be updating our guidance in consultation with the authorities as this situation unfolds,” he said.

Fianna Fáil leader Micheál Martin said the images and reports coming from Brussels were “chilling”.

“Once again, a European capital has been terrorised by completely indiscriminate acts of hatred and cruelty,” he said.

“Serious analysis and debate will be needed as Europe confronts the reality of the increased terrorist threat and Ireland will have to play its full part in that, but in the meantime our thoughts and prayers are with the families and friends of those killed or injured.”

Sinn Féin leader Gerry Adams also extended his sympathy and solidarity to those killed and injured in the Brussels attacks.

“There is a deep sense of shock at the unfolding developments,” he said.

“This morning a 100 strong Sinn Féin delegation was due to arrive there. Thankfully all of those are safe.”

Archbishop of Dublin Michael Jackson said he expressed his “sorrow and solidarity” with the people of Belgium and all who have suffered.

“I wish also to express concern for members of the emergency services who experience horror and trauma as part of their commitment to service in their work,” he said.

“Brussels, as we all know, is home to people from all over the world and many Irish people will know the city well and identify with its citizens as they come to terms with what is happening there today.”

The Ahmadiyya Muslim Community in Ireland released a statement offering their condolences to the people and government of Belgium.

“This unprecedented attack on different locations, targeting innocent people is against everything, and we stand shoulder to shoulder with the civilized world,” it said.

“We believe that these terrorists are enemies of freedom and humanity, but their campaign of terror should not break our spirit or dampen our resilience as proponents of world peace”