Security concern for Europe over Algeria situation, says Shatter

on 17/01/2013 10:27:19

Minister for Justice Alan Shatter has said EU Ministers are concerned about a possible al-Qaida attack in Europe after Islamist terrorists kidnapped 41 people in Algeria.

A 36-year-old Irishman is among the hostages who have been held captive since an attack on a BP and Statoil gas field yesterday.

The incident is being linked to the French intervention in Mali, which is supported by Britain.

EU Foreign Ministers will discuss the situation in Brussels today. It is also on the agenda at a meeting of Justice and Home Affairs Ministers in Dublin.

Speaking ahead of that meeting, Minister Alan Shatter said threats were made by fundamentalists in response to the action in Mali, and now there is a concern for security in Europe too.

"There is always a concern that al-Qaida affiliates may engage in some terrorist act within the European Union, arising out of the events that have taken place," he said.

"Of course that is of concern to me (and) I know it will be of concern to other Ministers."