Irish prison officer home targeted in 'sinister' attack

The home of an Irish prison officer has been targeted in a "cowardly arson attack", according to the Prison Officers' Association (POA).

Gardaí (Irish police) said it had started an investigation into an incident of criminal damage at the property in Trim, County Meath, on Monday.

No injuries were reported in the fire which began at about 23:30 local time.

The POA said the attack "could have led to loss of life" and was "extremely sinister".

The body represents prison officers in the Republic of Ireland.

Its deputy general secretary, Gabriel Keaveny, added: "We have no doubt that this horrific attack related to the prison officer's work."

'Shocking ordeal for prison officers'

Mr Keaveny called for Ireland's justice minister, Helen McEntee, and the Garda Commissioner, Drew Harris, to "take whatever action is necessary to ensure that prison officers and their families are safe in their own homes".

"The government have a responsibility for the safety and security to its employees," he added.

The association also requested an urgent meeting with the director of the prison service to discuss the attack.

There have been "similar instances of attacks on prison officers homes in the past", he continued, "which understandably are a shocking ordeal for prison officers and their families".

Police said their enquiries into the incident are ongoing.

Extended sentences

Justice Minister Helen McEntee condemns the attack on a prison officer's home

Helen McEntee has condemned the attack.

She said: "This was a reckless and unacceptable act of violence that could have had very tragic consequences.

"Nobody’s home should ever be targeted in this, or in any other way."

The department outlined that last year maximum prison sentences were increased from seven years to 12 years for those assaulting or threatening a peace officer, which includes prison officers or members of An Garda Síochána.

Also under the Criminal Damage Act 1991, the offence of arson can carry a sentence of up to life in prison.

The department added that Ms McEntee has met with the Prison Officers' Association on a number of occasions over the last year.

Staff given necessary support

This Irish Prison Service called acts of violence against their staff is "unacceptable".

They said "any criminal act carried out within our prisons, including assaults or threats on a staff member, are reported to An Gardaí Síochána for investigation and prosecution.

"Staff who are subject to an assault or threat in our prisons are given the necessary supports through the employee assistance programme."