Terrorism Threat Level Reduced To 'SUBSTANTIAL'

The threat of a terrorist attack in Northern Ireland has been lowered from 'SEVERE' to 'SUBSTANTIAL' by UK Security Service, MI5.

This means that the threat of terrorism has gone from 'Highly likely' to 'likely'.

Announcing the change to Parliament, the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, Chris Heaton-Harris, said: "This positive step reflects the commitment of communities from across Northern Ireland to build a safer place to live and work.

"As ever, the public should remain vigilant and report any concerns they may have to the police.

"There remains a small group of people determined to destabilise the political settlement in Northern Ireland through acts of terrorism."

MI5, alongside partners, will continue to work around the clock to investigate and disrupt terrorism in all its forms, as part of our mission to keep the country safe.

Welcoming the reduction PSNI Chief Constable Jon Boutcher said: "I welcome this reduction and its significance for our communities, for police officers and staff and our partners. It is testament to all of our collective long-term efforts, in particular the community, in achieving the kind of society that we all want and deserve.

"Over recent years we have successfully prevented attacks and investigated and pursued groups, such as the New IRA, who don't care about placing our communities at significant risk through their reckless attempts to kill police officers.

"It is sad that there is still a small group of people within our society who are intent on causing harm and dragging Northern Ireland back to the past. No-one wants this and we will continue to pursue anyone involved and bring them before the courts in order to make our communities safer.

"It's just over one year since the cowardly attempted murder of Detective Chief Inspector John Caldwell. Our officers will continue to relentlessly pursue those responsible for this most vicious act, seeking to bring all who have played any part before the courts.

"Following the reduction in the threat level the public won't see an immediate change in how we deliver policing and our priority will remain the same, to deliver a visible, accessible and responsive community focused policing service to keep people safe."