Police warn journalist of dissident plot to attack them in their home

This morning the newspaper reported that police had visited the journalist to alert them to a dissident republican plot to attack them in their home.

Noel Doran, editor of The Irish News, said all attempts to intimidate journalists were repugnant and said it was an “appalling development” in the midst of the coronavirus pandemic. He said: “After discussing the case with a senior officer, I am satisfied that it is being treated very seriously by police. Our staff will not be deterred from carrying out their duties at any stage and I would call on those behind this threat to withdraw it without delay.”

The PSNI said it did not discuss the security of individuals, adding: “We never ignore anything which may put an individual at risk.”

The NUJ said that it “vehemently condemned” the threat and called for it to be lifted immediately.

NUJ assistant general secretary Séamus Dooley said: “Vicious threats against journalists, by any group, at any time, are disgraceful. It is shocking this threat has been made at a time when the NHS staff are trying to save lives and help the vulnerable in our society. While the coronavirus is causing immense physical, mental and financial suffering; those behind this despicable threat have issued it in the hope of silencing a specific journalist and journalism in general.”

Sinn Féin MLA Gerry Kelly said: “I unreservedly condemn those responsible for issuing a threat against a journalist at the Irish News.”

Amnesty international also condemned the threat and said that “right now, in the middle of a global pandemic, journalists are providing an essential public service”.

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