Following the terrorist attack in Manchester on Monday night – in which 22 people died – Independent TD Michael Fitzmaurice has warned that a similar atrocity could happen in Ireland. He said it would be extremely naive to think that such an atrocity could not happen here and that “we will have to be more vigilant than ever.”
“The Gardaí and security services must tighten up on possible terror suspects who may be living here. There is no need for a knee-jerk or over the top reaction, however we need to step up security where it is needed.
“Justice Minister Frances Fitzgerald and the Garda Commissioner need to ensure that a review is carried out immediately into our ability to deal with any possible attack,” he said.
Deputy Fitzmaurice described what happened in Manchester as “an outrageous atrocity” and said “our first thoughts must be with the families of those who lost their lives and were injured in what was a senseless, vicious and cowardly attack on innocent young children and teenagers.”
Senator Frank Feighan (Fine Gael) said that every Irish person stands in solidarity with the city of Manchester, which has been devastated by a vile act of terrorism.
“Our thoughts and prayers are with the victims and their families. Targeting a concert attended by young people, many of them teenagers, is plumbing new depths of depravity.
“Manchester has a very proud Irish community, many of whom are from Roscommon and the West of Ireland. The Irish community, like so many others, have been rallying to help and offer support to those affected by this horrific incident.”
