DUBLIN, May 25 (Xinhua) -- Irish Prime Minister Enda Kenny convened a security meeting with cabinet ministers on Thursday in the wake of the Manchester terrorist attack to review the country's level of preparedness in the event of an attack here.
The meeting was also attended by the commissioner of the national police service and the chief of staff of the defense forces.
The cabinet issued a statement after the meeting, saying that although there is a threat in Ireland, an attack is unlikely.
"The meeting was briefed on the threat assessment by the security authorities, who indicated that they remain in daily contact with their counterparts in the UK, the EU and beyond. It was noted that while a terrorist attack here is possible it is unlikely and there is no specific information in relation to any threat to Ireland from international terrorism," the cabinet said, adding that this assessment will remain under continuous review.
The cabinet said ministers were briefed on the overall national emergency management arrangements involving the different agencies of the country and how these arrangements would be operationalized in the event of a terrorist attack or other major incident.
As well as the key government departments who have a leading role within their specific sectors, the cabinet said the meeting was briefed on the role of the Health Service Executive (HSE), local authorities, aviation and transport authorities.
According to the cabinet statement, Irish police are working closely with event organizers to ensure that appropriate safety and security measures are in place at forthcoming events in the summer period.
The statement said Irish police, supported by the defence forces, are engaged in intensive work aimed at preventing any attack taking place here and that detailed preparations have also been made in the event of an attack.
It added other agencies have plans in place to deal with the outcome of major incidents.
On Tuesday, Irish Prime Minister Kenny said there are no plans yet to raise the alert level in the country. But he said security arrangements are constantly under review.
So far, British police have detained eight people in connection with Monday night's attack, which left 22 people dead, 64 wounded.
