Gardai make terror backer list priority for security

GARDAI are compiling a fresh list of dissident IRA sympathisers as they prepare for a potential hard border, it has been revealed.

The threat from paramilitaries has risen as the so-called New IRA begin its campaign of terror.

Sources have admitted a bid to build an up-to-date intelligence picture has been made a priority.

An insider said: “There is a strong move to gather information on people who have relationships with dissident groups.

“The old guard has changed and there may be young recruits now who were not part of these organisations previously.

“There have been a lot of successes for gardai and security services in the North but the need for detailed intelligence is critical.”

The source warned of a “new desire to launch a fresh campaign” of terror.

The insider added: “These dissidents are led by a hardcore handful of fundamentalists with a crop of new young recruits from both sides of the border.”

It has also been claimed in recent days the terror group are operating on both sides of the border.

The surrounding areas have suffered a garda manpower crisis since the Government launched cuts.

Another source said: “Since 2008 Cavan Monaghan Division is down 72 gardai. In same period Donegal division is down 84 members. These are the official department of justice figures.

“Policing in the border area has always been a challenge but now with the potential of the border coming back it will be more even more difficult.”

Intelligence and anti-terror gardai carried out a massive search operation in the

Cooley Peninsula recently netting a haul of weaponry, explosives and ammunition.