Irish schools remain open after threat assessment

The Gardaí confirmed they are aware of a generic communication sent to multiple educational institutions. Minister Naughton stated she has spoken with Minister for Justice Jim O’Callaghan and officials are in contact with the Gardaí regarding the situation.

“Gardaí have advised schools that they have assessed this threat as not credible and there is no need for schools to evacuate,” she said. Schools that received the email are instructed to contact emergency services and follow Garda advice. Gardaí reported receiving a significant number of phone calls this morning.

In Northern Ireland, the Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) reported that approximately 300 schools received a similar email containing a threat, which they are treating as a hoax. Assistant Chief Constable Anthony McNally emphasized the seriousness with which the PSNI views such incidents and acknowledged the concern within school communities. He stated, “Our enquiries are ongoing, however, at this stage we consider risk to the public as low.”

A primary school in Belfast shared a message from the Northern Ireland Education Authority, noting similarities to a previous hoax threat. The Education Authority confirmed they are liaising with police and have not found evidence of a credible threat. They advised schools to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity.

Yesterday, Garda Deputy Commissioner Paul Cleary issued guidance on responding to increased activity involving hoax threats, advising immediate contact with An Garda Síochána by calling 999 for assessment and subsequent instructions.

Police Scotland also reported that some schools in Scotland received similar emails, describing them as “distressing” but finding no indication of a credible threat. Several media organizations in Ireland and the UK also received a comparable threat.