GARDAÍ are planning a nationwide anti-terrorism operation on St Patrick's Day to lower the chance of a terror attack, according to reports.
The main operation is set for Dublin city centre where Armed Support Units will be on standby, while Regional Support Units will be available to respond instantly to other parts of the country.
According to the Irish Times, at least 20 large vehicles – including fire trucks – will be parked at strategic locations along the parade route through the city centre.
However, gardaí have stressed there is nothing to suggest that Dublin or the country at large is being targeted by extremists.
Dublin's St Patrick's Day parade is one of the most popular in the world (Picture: RollingNews.ie)A Garda source told the paper: "There is no specific intelligence to suggest Ireland is a target from international terror groups."
The source added: “These are practical measures built into the regular policing plan.
"It reflects the times we live in but its precautionary and there is definitely no need for any concern."
The special policing plan will mark the first time a "full-scale" anti-terror operation has been launched in the Irish capital.
There will be a large visible presence of uniformed and unarmed gardaí discreetly patrolling the route.
The force said it is confident that the presence of its officers will be unintrusive for people enjoying the festivities.
