Lenihan defends anti-terrorism measures

The Government today defended its role in the fight against international terrorism.

The Government today defended its role in the fight against international terrorism.

Minister of State at the Department of Health Brian Lenihan said everything is being done that should be done to ensure maximum protection for persons at Irish airports.

"At this stage and on the evidence we have to date, there is no evidence that any of the individuals apprehended in the UK yesterday had any connection with this country at any stage."

There is no evidence that any of the individuals apprehended in the UK yesterday had any connection with this country at any stage
Minister of State at the Department of Health Brian Lenihan

Anti-terrorist officers in Britain are questioning 24 people on suspicion of planning devastating attacks. Nineteen of those have had their assets frozen. None has any connection with Ireland.

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Thousands of Irish travellers were affected by the incidents.

Up to 80,000 passengers are expected to travel through Dublin airport today. Airlines are reporting little or no delays, but travellers are warned to be prepared for stringent security checks.

Mr Lenihan, Minister for Children, criticised reports that Ireland could be a launch pad for terrorists travelling to Britain.

"I can assure you there is continuous and ongoing contact between the UK and ourselves as to which security measures should be taken," he said.

Mr Lenihan stressed that the Government would respond to any advice given by the National Security Committee which met yesterday, but refused to outline any recommendations made.

All airlines flying from Dublin to Britain and mainland Europe are asking passengers to carry just one item of hand baggage which is to be kept to a minimum and to allow extra time to reach the airport and to clear security.

No electrical or battery powered items, including laptops and mobile phones, are permitted in any aircraft.