Shatter advises media on terrorist names

The media should be careful “not to give undue legitimacy” in naming paramilitary groups such as the one responsible for last Friday’s bomb attack in Belfast, according to Minister for Justice Alan Shatter.

He said it was “odious that the mindless terrorist thugs who inflicted this outrage on innocent people seek to usurp the name of the Irish Defence Forces, Óglaigh na hÉireann”.

He said “Óglaigh na hÉireann” is the name of the Irish Defence Forces in our language. They are a source of great pride to this State as they carry out their duties to the highest professional standard at home and overseas.

“No media outlet should facilitate its misappropriation by individuals intent on perpetrating murder and causing mayhem to the detriment of all who live on this island.”

Referring s to Friday night’s bomb attack, he said “once again terror was inflicted on the ordinary people of Belfast who were out enjoying themselves and celebrating the festive season when the device partially exploded as the Police Service of Northern Ireland were searching the area”.