merrion street

In condemning the bomb attack that took place in Belfast last Friday night, Minister Shatter today emphasised the need for the media to be careful not to give undue legitimacy in the naming of groups engaged in these acts of mindless violence.

The Minister said that “Once again terror was inflicted on the ordinary people of Belfast who were out enjoying themselves and celebrating the festive season when the device partially exploded as the Police Service of Northern Ireland were searching the area.”

The Minister went on to say “It is odious that the mindless terrorist thugs who inflicted this outrage on innocent people seek to usurp the name of the Irish Defence Forces, “Óglaigh na hÉireann”. To attach this banner to atrocities they attempt to perpetrate illustrates the twisted thinking of terrorists who think that they can go against the will of the people by perpetrating mindless and savage acts of violence”.

He went on to say that , “Óglaigh na hÉireann” is the name of the Irish Defence Forces in our language who are a source of great pride to this State as they carry out their duties to the highest professional standard at home and overseas. No media outlet should facilitate it’s misappropriation by individuals intent on perpetrating murder and causing mayhem to the detriment of all who live on this island”