The discovery of an arms dump close to the border in Co Louth is yet another blow against dissident republicans and shows there can be no let up in the fight against their violent activities.
AK47s, ammunition, a sniper rifle and components for mortar bombs were found near Jenkinstown following an operation by gardai.
It is not known how long the cache had been stored in the area but the find comes after another arms dump was uncovered recently in Co Monaghan.
These discoveries are of course very welcome and ensure these deadly weapons are kept out of the hands of those who are determined to kill and maim.
But as Secretary of State Theresa Villiers confirmed this week, the threat level from dissidents remains severe which means an attack is highly likely.
In a written statement to parliament, Ms Villiers said there have been 16 dissident attacks this year, mainly against PSNI members but also targeting prison officers and military personnel.
These despicable crimes involved the use of under-car booby trap bombs, automatic gunfire and a hand grenade. An explosion in a postal van inside Palace Barracks in Holywood not only put lives at risk but was a major breach of security.
Given this litany of attacks and the determined nature of the ruthless bombers and gunmen, many people are fortunate to be here this Christmas. We can say with certainty it was not what the dissidents had intended.
The number of attacks this year is slightly less than in 2014 and well down on the 40 which took place in 2010.
According to Ms Villiers, the PSNI has made over 100 dissident arrests this year while we know gardai have also had marked successes.
However, until dissidents republicans step back from violence, the danger for police and the wider public will continue.
As we look towards 2016, we must hope that dissidents finally realise their campaign is going nowhere and their only and best option is a peaceful strategy.
