The Daily Star Ireland
Gardaí have launched a criminal investigation following a threat made against Tánaiste Simon Harris and members of his family. The warning, posted on social media earlier today, is being treated as a serious matter by authorities.
Mr Harris himself alerted Gardaí after becoming aware of the post. The investigation is being led by officers in Wicklow with support from specialist units, including the National Cyber Crime Bureau and the Special Detective Unit, both of which handle sensitive cases involving online activity and potential threats to state officials.
Previous Threats and Security Concerns
This is not the first time the Tánaiste has been targeted online. While threats of this nature have emerged in the past, Gardaí say they are particularly concerned about the latest message, given that it referenced members of Mr Harris’s family.
The Tánaiste’s home in County Wicklow has also been a focal point for protests in recent years, with demonstrators appearing outside the property where his wife and children live. Such incidents have prompted growing debate in Ireland about the balance between public demonstrations and the security of political leaders’ private lives.
Despite these pressures, Harris has previously stated that he will not be deterred from carrying out his duties. His remarks reflect a wider concern among Irish politicians about the escalation of hostility faced by public representatives, particularly on social media platforms.
Garda Response
In a brief statement, Garda Headquarters confirmed that a criminal inquiry is under way but declined to provide further details, citing the ongoing investigation. Security around high-ranking government officials is routinely assessed, and any credible threats typically prompt additional protective measures.
The latest incident underscores the increasing challenges Gardaí face in responding to online threats, which can escalate quickly and extend beyond politicians themselves to include their families. It also comes at a time when political figures across Europe have raised concerns about the impact of rising aggression and intimidation on democratic participation.
