SIR Patrick Mayhew has praised the security forces in Northern Ireland as "a formidable obstacle" to those who wished to overthrow the rule of law.
The Northern Ireland Secretary was issuing his Christmas message to the forces. He also made Christmas visits to military bases.
His statement continued. "That is why recent attempts have been made to murder security force members. Those attempts were, each of them for real.
Sir Patrick warned that such tempts might well be renewed any and at any moment, as was clearly shown by Friday's shooting of an RUC man guarding DUP politician Mr Nigel Dodds as he visited his young son at the Royal Belfast Hospital for Sick Children.
Vigilance, skill and courage continued to be asked of the army and police by everyone who lived in Northern Ireland.
"They deserve and yearn for a peaceful and stable future," Sir Patrick said. He added that the path to that future lay through the political process, not through the use of violence.
"No British government will fail to stand firm against terrorism, from any quarter," he added.
Sir Patrick will remain on duty in Northern Ireland over Christmas but for the last time. He has announced he will not stand for re-election.