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29/10/2013
Stormont Castle Evacuated
Stormont Castle has been evacuated after a suspicious package was discovered addressed to Secretary of State Theresa Villiers this morning.
Army bomb squad officers are currently at the scene, where it is understood the package has been confirmed as 'viable'.
Ms Villiers said: "If those responsible think that this kind of criminal activity will further any agenda, then they are completely mistaken."
Stormont Castle is the headquarters of the Office of the First Minister and deputy First Minister, Peter Robinson and Martin McGuinness.
It is understood staff and ministers were moved to Parliament Buildings to continue work for the day.
The First Minister said: "Those responsible for sending this, and other devices, through the post have absolutely no regard for the lives of postal workers and staff working in offices. They will not further any aim or objective by their vile and callous deeds."
Today's security alert follows the discovery of three letter bombs over the past week by Royal Mail staff; one of which was addressed to PSNI Chief Constable Matt Baggott.
(IT/CD)
Army bomb squad officers are currently at the scene, where it is understood the package has been confirmed as 'viable'.
Ms Villiers said: "If those responsible think that this kind of criminal activity will further any agenda, then they are completely mistaken."
Stormont Castle is the headquarters of the Office of the First Minister and deputy First Minister, Peter Robinson and Martin McGuinness.
It is understood staff and ministers were moved to Parliament Buildings to continue work for the day.
The First Minister said: "Those responsible for sending this, and other devices, through the post have absolutely no regard for the lives of postal workers and staff working in offices. They will not further any aim or objective by their vile and callous deeds."
Today's security alert follows the discovery of three letter bombs over the past week by Royal Mail staff; one of which was addressed to PSNI Chief Constable Matt Baggott.
(IT/CD)
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Northern Ireland WeatherToday:It will be cloudy again throughout the day. Mainly dry in the morning, but patchy drizzle in places, becoming more widespread and persistent in the afternoon. Freshening southwesterly winds. Maximum temperature 12 °C.Tonight:Cloudy with a spell of heavy rain pushing south through late evening and the early hours, followed by some clear spells. Minimum temperature 6 °C.
