DUBLIN — An Garda Síochána have initiated a major investigation into a “specific and detailed” online threat targeting the family of Tánaiste Simon Harris. The threat, which is understood to have been posted on a popular social media platform on Sunday morning, has been described as “significant.”
Detectives immediately began their investigation and are working with the social media company, which has offices in Dublin. The probe involves the Special Detective Unit (SDU), the State’s counter-terrorism specialists, and the Garda National Cyber Crime Bureau.
Sources close to the investigation have stated that the SDU detectives involved are part of a team specifically focused on far-right extremism, a development that points to the seriousness of the threat.
In a statement released in the early hours of Monday morning, Tánaiste Harris expressed his outrage at the threats. “This weekend, I received direct threats targeting my family. As a father, I have very strong views and feelings on this as you can imagine,” he said. “As a political leader, I find it unacceptable in every way.”
He went on to state, “Threatening people—any person—is a crime. Threatening children is despicable. It is cowardice. And it is a line that no decent society should tolerate being crossed.” Harris added that he would not be commenting further on the ongoing Garda investigation.
This is not the first time the Tánaiste has been the subject of security concerns. Protests have been held at his County Wicklow home, and he has received a significant number of online threats. Harris already travels with a substantial Garda protection detail, and his home is monitored 24 hours a day by an armed Garda post. His security is said to be at a similar level to that of a sitting Taoiseach.
A Garda spokesman confirmed the investigation, stating, “An Garda Síochána is currently investigating this matter,” but declined to provide further details on the nature of the threat.
