DUBLIN, Ireland: Political extremists in Ireland have shifted from isolated rhetoric to "an organised attempt to undermine the State" and "inflict violence on people," Taoiseach Micheál Martin has said.

He warned of a "considerable degree of concern" about extremism, calling it a growing threat to Irish society.

His remarks follow threats against politicians and migrants, as well as a Garda investigation into an alleged far-right plot to attack a mosque, for which two people have been charged.

"This has moved beyond individuals or general online narratives," Martin said. "It is now an organised effort to damage the State and, above all, to harm people." He stressed that everyone must be respected regardless of "ethnic background, colour or creed."

Garda Commissioner Justin Kelly said he is worried about "outside influence" from abroad shaping violent political extremism in Ireland. He noted that similar patterns are emerging across Europe and that Ireland is not immune. Gardaí have stepped up their capabilities to counter such threats.

Both men were speaking at the largest attestation of new Gardaí since 2019, with 194 officers and 17 reserves set to join divisions nationwide. Another large class of recruits will enter the training college next week.

Kelly said the current extremism threat level is "moderate" and confirmed Gardaí are tracking fewer than 10 groups linked to violent political extremism. Some are more organised than others, he said, and they span a wide range of ideologies.

He acknowledged public alarm over the alleged planned attack on a Galway mosque but said Gardaí were not surprised, as they regularly gather intelligence and stay informed on international trends.

"There are people here who intend to harm, particularly to migrant communities," he said. "We must remain fully alert — we are not immune, as events in the UK and Europe show."

Kelly also pointed to "really concerning" online threats directed at politicians and asylum seekers. He promised Gardaí would be "particularly relentless" in pursuing those who target public officials or residents in IPAS accommodation centers.

Justice Minister Jim O'Callaghan said he has "great confidence" in Gardaí but urged the public to support investigators by reporting threats or suspicious activity.