The technology used by far-right extremists causing threats to politicians’ lives is developing “far quicker” than Gardaí can keep up with, according to a political commentator. 

It has been reported that the threat level posed by violent extremists has been increased from 'moderate' to 'substantial' - meaning an attack is 'likely'. 

According to the Sunday Times, Garda Commissioner Drew Harris informed the Justice Minister of the move in a private letter. 

It is understood Garda HQ now considers far-right extremism to pose a more serious threat than international jihadist terrorism and violent dissident Republicanism. 

Political commentator Ursula Ní Shabhais said this is a “significant” decision from Gardaí. 

“But it's also, unfortunately, not very surprising considering the direction of travel we're seeing over the past weeks and months,” she told The Anton Savage Show. 

“It's very significant to see this here, but also what needs to be seen now following this is how do we get ourselves out of this situation?” 

According to the Sunday Times, Gardaí have already thwarted “countless arson attacks on planned refugee accommodation centres”. 

The Taoiseach Simon Harris in the Courtyard at Government Buildings, 07-08-2024. Image: Leah Farrell/RollingNews

Intelligence services have also already compromised several plans to kill politicians, according to reports. 

“That’s terrifying,” Ms Ní Shabhais said. “What does that mean for anybody who would think of going into political life down the line? 

“Why would anybody want to get engaged in public service down the line if this is the sort of treatment that's going to await them? 

“The Gardaí are under-resourced - encryption and these technologies that are being used by these far-right extremists are developing far quicker than the Garda resources are able to keep up with.” 

Until Gardaí "get ahead" or "match" that technology, Ms Ní Shabhais said the threats will remain.

Threats from extremists

Ms Ní Shabhais said the “social media bubble” that has drawn people to more “extremist” views must be tackled to lower the risk to politicians. 

“How are those people who are engaging in these things, how are they going to be punished in a way that's going to be a deterrent to other people?” she asked. 

“Although there hasn't been a major attack on an Irish politician yet, we have seen that happen in other places and it is getting more common, unfortunately. 

“As much as there's been a lot of near misses or hoaxes or threats in 2016, the MP Jo Cox was killed two weeks before the referendum. 

“It can get that serious.” 

There have been several serious threats against politicians in recent months, including threats against Taoiseach Simon Harris. 

A man was arrested last Sunday in connection with online threats against the Taoiseach. 

A man was arrested on August 9th in connection with a bomb threat on Mr Harris' home. 

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