Threats emailed to Westmeath schools

Westmeath schools were among hundreds of educational establishments across Ireland to receive threats by email this morning (Wednesday, November 11.

The generic threats were reportedly sent to schools both north and south of the border, while similar communications were also reported at schools in Italy. Irish and UK media organisations were also said to have received fresh threats.

Schools contacted parents to inform them that gardaí had been notified and that they were following the advice and guidance provided by An Garda Síochána.

In a statement, gardaí confirmed they were aware of a generic communication sent to a number of educational establishments on Wednesday, November 11.

An Garda Síochána said it assessed the threat as not credible and was not advising any educational establishment to evacuate. Gardaí were engaging with a number of schools in relation to the matter.

The latest incident follows a warning from Deputy Garda Commissioner Paul Cleary, who spoke on Tuesday about an increase in hoax and non-credible bomb threats and outlined the procedure for schools and other premises receiving such communications.

He advised anyone receiving a bomb threat by email, letter or any other means to contact An Garda Síochána immediately by calling 999 and to provide as much detail as possible.

Once notified, the Garda Regional Control Centre assesses the credibility of the threat before advising on the most appropriate response.

Deputy Commissioner Cleary stressed that receiving a bomb threat did not automatically mean a building had to be evacuated. Depending on the assessment, the response could involve providing advice or carrying out a cursory search of the premises.

While premises managers retain the ability to make their own decision to evacuate, gardaí will provide professional guidance based on the information available.

“Our priority is, and always will be, the safety of the public,” he said.

He added that every report was taken seriously and that An Garda Síochána was committed to providing a professional, proportionate and timely response.

The latest communications come amid increased activity involving hoax threats, with gardaí continuing to engage with affected educational establishments.