The Taoiseach is being kept informed of the investigation into a stabbing attack on a chaplain at a Galway army barracks.
Gardaí are working to establish whether the attack last night at Renmore Barracks was motivated by terrorism.
Fr Paul Murphy, who in aged his 50s, was stabbed a number of times just before 11pm.
Defence Forces members fired a number of warning shots and a teenage boy was restrained and subsequently arrested by Gardaí.
Fr Murphy is being treated at University Hospital Galway for non-life threatening injuries while the teenager remains in custody.
Renmore Barracks in Galway, 16-8-24. Image: M Walsh/NewstalkTaoiseach Simon Harris says he is being kept informed of the investigation into what he calls a "serious attack on a member of the Defence Forces".
"I have been kept informed of the trajectory of the investigation by the Minister for Justice Helen McEntee who is being briefed by An Garda Síochána," he said.
"A serious line of inquiry is being pursued and at this time it is important to allow Gardaí to work to establish all the facts.
"I have also spoken to the Tánaiste and Minister for Defence Mícheál Martin on the quick action of Defence Forces personnel who intervened during the attack.
"My thoughts remain with Defence Forces Chaplin, Fr Paul Murphy, and on behalf of the Government I wish him a speedy recovery and want to thank the officers of the Gardaí and Defence Forces for their response," he added.
The church at Renmore Barracks in Galway, 16-8-24. Image: M Walsh/NewstalkGardaí say the period of detection for the teenager has been extended.
"An Garda Síochána wishes to reassure the public that at this time it is not believed this incident is part of a wider conspiracy," the force says in a statement.
"A thorough investigation is underway and all relevant bureaux have been engaged and are active in progressing this investigation," it adds.
The teenage boy is being questioned at a Garda station in the north-west.
