Russia Among Foreign Nations Engaged in Espionage in Ireland, According to Garda Official

Assistant Commissioner Michael McElgunn, head of An Garda Síochána’s Security and Intelligence Bureau, has confirmed that Russia is one of several countries conducting espionage activities in Ireland.

Speaking on RTÉ’s This Week programme, McElgunn detailed concerns about foreign states with malign intentions engaging in espionage on Irish soil. These activities include supporting extremist groups, creating distrust in the government, and attempting to steal state and industrial secrets, thereby damaging Ireland’s reputation.

The Assistant Commissioner highlighted the close monitoring by Irish authorities of individuals suspected of espionage, with collaborative efforts between Ireland’s security and intelligence services and European counterparts to manage the entry and exit of such individuals.

While acknowledging that espionage is a common practice among nations for competitive advantage and national interest, McElgunn emphasised the Garda’s duty to investigate and manage threats from hostile states, specifically mentioning Russia as a country of interest.

Espionage Concerns and International Relations

Despite maintaining diplomatic relations, McElgunn drew parallels between current concerns and past incidents, such as the Salisbury poisonings in the UK and Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, to illustrate the potential threat. He also noted similar monitoring of China due to its status as a global superpower and economic competitor, with specific attention given to elements of the Chinese Communist Party’s foreign policy.

Islamist Extremism and ISIS-K

In addition to state actors, Gardaí are actively monitoring Islamist extremist groups, particularly ISIS-K (Islamic State Khorasan Province).

The group, linked to a deadly attack in Moscow earlier this year, has a presence in Ireland, primarily focused on finance and logistical support rather than direct attacks. The Special Detective Unit’s Terrorist Finance Unit has been instrumental in preventing the relocation of a key operative to Ireland and has secured convictions for terrorist financing, with several other cases pending.

Threats to Politicians and Social Media’s Role

McElgunn addressed the rising number of threats against politicians, facilitated in part by social media. He criticised major platforms for not adequately utilising technology to prevent the spread of violent extremism, while smaller companies have shown willingness to comply with regulations such as the European Digital Services Act. The Assistant Commissioner pointed out the significant role of social media in radicalising individuals, creating echo chambers that reinforce extremist views.

Far-Right Extremism and Disinformation

The Assistant Commissioner also noted the emergence of far-right extremism in Ireland, exacerbated by socio-economic factors and government restrictions during the COVID-19 pandemic.

He warned of far-right activists exploiting international ideologies, such as the Great Replacement Theory and anti-immigrant sentiments, to further their agendas. The Garda’s Security and Intelligence Section has identified a small group of influencers and extremists seeking to divide society, with social media playing a crucial role in amplifying their messages.

McElgunn emphasised that while the far-right movement may encompass those with right-wing sentiments, the concern lies with violent political extremists willing to use terrorism, arson, and rioting to achieve their goals. He cited recent violent incidents in O’Connell Street and Coolock as examples of opportunistic criminal behaviour often mistaken for ideological protest.

Dissident Republicanism and the Far Left

The Assistant Commissioner highlighted the persistent threat posed by dissident republican groups, which he categorised as the violent wing of the far left. While the immediate threat in Ireland is considered low, the situation in Northern Ireland remains significant, with collaborative efforts between Gardaí, the PSNI, and MI5 to address shared threats. Groups such as the Continuity IRA, Real IRA, and New IRA continue to pose risks, particularly in terms of weapons procurement and logistical support.

McElgunn reiterated the Garda’s commitment to balancing the right to protest with the need to prevent violence and protect national security. The evolving landscape of extremism and espionage necessitates ongoing vigilance and international cooperation to address these multifaceted threats.

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