asked the Minister for Justice if he will outline the steps taken or proposed to be taken by the Government in response to the threats by Loyalist paramilitaries to members of the Government and the Oireachtas, as reported in a newspaper (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Written Answers. - Paramilitary Threats.
99.
Outlining to this House the steps taken to counteract particular threats — and here I am not in any way conceding that the type of threat mentioned in the question has been received — would, at very least, reduce their effectiveness and would be, generally speaking, counter-productive.
The Deputy will be aware, from his own period in office, that where an unusual threat towards a particular person, or group of persons, is perceived the practice is for the proper authorities to make direct private approaches to those concerned, with a view to ensuring that the necessary precautions are taken to counteract the threat.