Bomb Threat Sent To Midlands Schools

Gardaí say they have received a large number of calls.

Bomb threats have been made to schools across the midlands this morning. 

The threat came in an email. 

Gardai say they are aware of a "generic communication" that has been sent to schools.

The Department of Education says Gardaí have advised it and schools that based on their review of the threat, there's no need to evacuate.

It also says the department is continuing to work with Gardaí at senior level in relation to the incident.

A principal in Laois says they received the email at 9.25am. 

She says they evacuated the building immediately and received advice from the Gardaí that we could return to the building.

She also says they have informed parents.

The Deputy Commissioner Paul Cleary spoke yesterday:

“In response to recent increased activity in hoax and non-credible bomb threats, I would like to provide the following guidance about what you should do if you receive one, and how An Garda Síochána will respond.

If you receive a bomb threat by email, letter or any other message, contact An Garda Síochána immediately by calling 999. Provide as much detail as possible about the threat and the communication you have received.

Once notified, our Garda Regional Control Centre will assess the credibility of the threat.

Following that assessment, the Control Centre and/or the Gardaí responding will advise you on the most appropriate course of action. We will do this as quickly as possible.

It is important to understand that a bomb threat does not automatically mean that a building needs to be evacuated, but attending Gardai will assist with this decision

In many cases, following an assessment, the appropriate response may be to provide advice or carry out a cursory search of the premises.

Of course, businesses and premises managers retain the ability to make their own decision to evacuate. However, An Garda Síochána will provide professional advice based on our assessment of the information available.

Our priority is, and always will be, the safety of the public.

You can be assured that every such report is taken seriously and that An Garda Síochána is committed to providing a professional, proportionate and timely response.”