Prison officer’s home targeted in ‘extremely sinister’ arson attack

By Cillian Sherlock, PA

Gardaí are investigating an arson attack at the home of a prison officer.

The attack occurred at approximately 11.30pm on Monday.

The incident has been described as “extremely sinister in nature” by the Prison Officers Association.

The POA said it “utterly condemns” the attack, adding that it could have led to a loss of life.

POA deputy general secretary Gabriel Keaveney said: “We have no doubt that this horrific attack related to the prison officer’s work.

“We now call on the Minister for Justice and the Garda Commissioner to take whatever action is necessary to ensure that prison officers and their families are safe in their own homes.

“The Government have a responsibility for the safety and security to its employees.”

The POA is also seeking an urgent meeting with the director of the Prison Service to discuss the incident, saying similar attacks have happened in the past.

The group said it will be offering continued support to the prison officer and his family as they deal with “this shocking ordeal”.

The Irish Prison Service said any act of violence against a prison officer is “unacceptable”.

In a statement, it said: “Any criminal act carried out within our prisons, including assaults or threats on a staff member, are reported to An Garda Síochána for investigation and prosecution.

“Staff who are subject to an assault or threat in our prisons are given the necessary supports through the employee assistance programme.”

It said it engages with An Garda Síochána with regard to the reporting of any possible criminal act and this happens at both local and national level.

It added: “The Irish Prison Service continues to work with An Garda Síochána on a number of joint actions to target criminal gangs.”