The head of Ireland’s Crime and Security Intelligence Service has revealed that Russia is one of a small number of countries believed to be spying in Ireland.
Assistant Commissioner Michael McElgunn, who is the head of the Garda unit charged with national security, said these states, while not numerous, are seeking to create mistrust in the government by supporting the activities of extremist groups.
They also attempt to steal state and industry secrets.
Speaking to RTÉ's This Week, the Assistant Commissioner said that he was “cautious” due to Ireland maintaining “diplomatic relations with these countries” but added, “I don’t think too many people would be surprised if I was to say Russia was one of these states.”
“We have a duty to investigate and manage the threats from hostile states and that includes espionage in the state.
“We are committed to monitoring the particular threats,” he said.
Mr McElgunn also identified China as one of the countries they are monitoring.
While Ireland shares a good relationship with the country, it is viewed as a competitor to the EU on the world and economic stage.
However, he also acknowledged that state espionage is part of “the way the world works” as countries spy for competitive advantage and national interest.
Elsewhere, the Assistant Commissioner revealed they are working with intelligence agencies in Europe and the US to monitor Islamist extremist groups such as ISIS-K (Islamic State Khorasan Province).
He said that the group has a presence in Ireland but added that their interest is in “finance and logistical support” and that “they are not focussed on any attack here”.
He also confirmed that Gardaí successfully prevented a suspected ISIS-K operative from coming to Ireland.
