Islamic extremist threat to Ireland possible but threat level remains low says Simon Coveney

Minister for Defence Simon Coveney says there is a possible risk this country could be attacked by Islamic extremists, but the threat level is low and will continue to be assessed.

He says he’s satisfied the Defence Forces and gardaí have the capacity to deal with extremists and is considering offering to send Irish soldiers to Africa to replace French troops if they are withdrawn from peacekeeping duties there.

France is likely to withdraw troops to protect its homeland and attack Islamic State forces responsible for the recent Paris massacres.