Taoiseach leads Irish political condemnation of Brussels attacks

By Fiachra Ó Cionnaith, Political Reporter

Ireland's political leaders have condemned the Brussels attacks in the strongest possible terms, saying they are an attempt to strike at the "very heart of the European Union" and to plant fear and racism in member nations.

Party leaders from all sides of the political divide hit out at the "atrocities" during a Dáil debate this morning which saw a minute's silence observed for those who have lost their lives in the terrorist attack.

While confirming no Irish citizen is known to have died or been injured by the events in Belgium today, caretaker taoiseach Enda Kenny said the numbers who have lost their lives are "substantial" and that the incident must not be allowed to be repeated again.

Fianna Fáil leader Micheal Martin supported to remarks, saying the bombings are "an attack on all of us" and "strike at the very heart of European people and the European Union".

Condemning the terrorist attacks "in the strongest possible terms", Sinn Féin leader said there is a "deep sense of shock" over what happened, while leading Independent Alliance TD Shane Ross said he wanted to express "utter revulsion" over this morning's attacks - stressing Ireland must present a "united" position on the matter.

Acting Tánaiste and Labour leader Joan Burton said the attacks are an "attempt to destroy our freedom" and that while they may "fly under the flag of religion they are political in nature".

Underlining the need not to discriminate against sections of society over what has happened, Anti-Austerity Alliance-People before Profit TD Paul Murphy said "the purposes of the attacks would appear to be an attempt to divide people and creation a situation of racism" in western countries.

Fine Gael MEP and director of elections Brian Hayes had earlier spoken to RTE radio from the European parliament in Brussels, saying officials have been "told to stay indoors, we'll be here for the foreseeable future".

In a statement, Foreign Affairs Minister Charlie Flanagan said the attacks must be condemned and urged Irish citizens in Belgian to take the necessary precautions.

"I am horrified by reports of multiple explosions in Brussels, Belgium, and my thoughts are with those affected.

"The consular section of my department, in conjunction with our embassy in Belgium, are working with the local authorities.

"Anyone with concerns for family and friends can contact the consular division of my department on [phone].

"Any Irish citizens in Brussels or Belgium should exercise caution and closely follow the instructions of local authorities," he said, adding his department "will be updating our guidance as this situation unfolds".