Foreign Affairs Committee express sincere condolences to those affected by last night’s act of terror in Manchester

The Chairman of the Joint Committee on Foreign Affairs and Trade, and Defence, Brendan Smith TD, today wrote to the British Ambassador on behalf of the Committee to express their sincere condolences to those affected by last night’s act of terror in the city of Manchester.

Speaking today, he said “As a Committee we are united in our forthright condemnation of this heinous and barbaric act that occurred last night in the city of Manchester. This morning, by way of letter to the British Ambassador to Ireland, H.E. Mr. Robin Barnett, we asked that he convey our deepest condolences to those affected by this senseless act of terrorism. As a Committee, we also expressed our sympathy to the people of the United Kingdom as they deal with another cruel and brutal attack on society.”

“What is particularly distressing is the profile of those targeted by this indefensible, inexcusable act. Innocent and vulnerable young people were targeted by this cowardly act as they enjoyed themselves, leading to unimaginable loss of life and serious injury.”

“There can be no place for terrorism and extremism in civil society and the will of the people to achieve this goal, can be seen by the swift reaction last night to come together and offer support to those affected.”