Bomb threats have been made against the home of Irish deputy premier Simon Harris (Fine Gael), according to An Garda Siochana. A police spokesman confirmed they are investigating the matter.
Harris is understood not to be at home, with the Garda Dog Unit currently at the scene. The minister for foreign affairs, trade and defence has faced escalating security concerns in recent days.
Third threat in a week
This marks the third threat against Harris in just over a week. On Saturday, he revealed a "vile" threat had been made against a close family member.
Earlier this week, a woman was arrested and released from garda custody after making threats against Harris's children. A file is being prepared for the Director of Public Prosecutions.
Harris responds to intimidation
Harris said in a Saturday statement that the threats against him and his family had "a very apparent motivation" which was to "intimidate me out of public office". He described the situation as systematic abuse rather than political debate.
"What I and my family have faced in recent weeks is not political debate. It is abuse. It is intimidation," Harris said. "It is behaviour that should never, ever be treated as normal. And no-one is to blame except those choosing to abuse and make threats."
The Fine Gael minister warned that the intimidation tactics could spread to other politicians. "It is me today but it will be someone else tomorrow," he said.
Consulting on action
Harris announced he would consult with government colleagues about online threats and intimidation. "Someone has to call a halt. Protecting my family will remain my number one priority. I will be guided by them on the next steps," he said.
The deputy premier has previously received threats through social media and phoned bomb threats. Protests have also been held outside his home, where his wife and children live.
Sources used: "PA Media" Note: This article has been edited with the help of Artificial Intelligence.
