Statement from Taoiseach, Simon Harris, on incident in Galway

A Garda investigation is ongoing into a serious attack on a member of the Defence Forces at Dún Uí Mhaoilíosa, Renmore in Galway last night.

I have been kept informed of the trajectory of the investigation by the Minister for Justice, Helen McEntee, who is being briefed by An Garda Siochana.

A serious line of inquiry is being pursued and at this time it is important to allow Gardai to work to establish all the facts.

I have also spoken to the Tánaiste and Minister for Defence, Mícheál Martin, on the quick action of Defence Forces personnel who intervened during the attack.

My thoughts remain with Defence Forces Chaplin, Fr Paul Murphy, and on behalf of the government I wish him a speedy recovery and want to thank the officers of the Gardai and Defence Forces for their response.

Ends