'The laws may need to be updated': Expert raises complex security risks for businesses 

Warning follows report of Independent Examiner of Security Legislation

One of Ireland’s foremost security risk management experts has warned Irish businesses must reassess and strengthen their physical security measures following the publication of the first report from the Independent Examiner of Security Legislation which highlights significant risks from domestic and international terrorist organisations. Picture: Getty Images/iStockphoto

One of Ireland’s foremost security risk management experts has warned Irish businesses must reassess and strengthen their physical security measures following the publication of the first report from the Independent Examiner of Security Legislation which highlights significant risks from domestic and international terrorist organisations.

The warning comes from Leo Harris, a leading expert on physical security risk assessments and a former member of the Army Ranger wing, following the report's publication. The Independent Examiner is an independent statutory body set up to keep under review the operation and effectiveness of security legislation and services in Ireland.

Mr Harris, who worked in some of East Africa’s most volatile environments, said the report confirms that Ireland’s threat landscape has evolved way beyond its traditional focus on dissident republican activity and is now much more complex. Emerging risks now include Islamist terrorism, right and left-wing extremism, single-issue activism, hostile state activity, and the growing concern of so-called “ lone wolf” actors, Mr Harris said.

He added that in this very changed landscape, and it's vital Irish businesses and the many multinationals based here take proactive measures to mitigate their risk.

“The priority in the short to medium term is clear such as strengthening physical security, improving situational awareness, which is absolutely critical, and ensuring preparedness for a wider range of potential risks,” Mr Harris said.

He said the report underscores a critical gap between modern security risks and the State’s existing legislative framework. In particular, it notes that current laws governing surveillance and interception, some dating back to 1993, do not adequately reflect the realities of contemporary communication technologies.

“The laws may need to be updated to mirror the current and very changed security landscape. Importantly, the report emphasises that any enhancement of security measures, whether at a national or organisational level, must continue to respect fundamental rights, including privacy and civil liberties,” Mr Harris said.

He highlighted key physical security recommendations for businesses:

• Enhance Access Control Measures: Implement robust entry management systems, including secure badging, visitor verification protocols, and restricted access to sensitive areas.

• Increase Surveillance and Monitoring: Deploy or upgrade CCTV systems with real-time monitoring capabilities, ensuring coverage of entrances, exits, and high-traffic zones.

• Strengthen Frontline Awareness: Train staff to recognise and respond to suspicious behaviour, including individuals conducting surveillance, unusual delivery patterns, or attempts to access restricted areas.

• Review Delivery and Courier Protocols: Introduce stricter procedures for handling incoming deliveries, including verification of senders and inspection processes where appropriate.

• Plan for Low-Sophistication Threats: Adapt security strategies to address the risk posed by lone actors, who may act unpredictably and with minimal planning.

• Conduct Regular Security Audits: Periodically review and test physical security arrangements to ensure they remain effective against evolving threats.