MI5 In Northern Ireland

Investigations into Northern Ireland-related terrorism are directed from MI5’s declared headquarters in Palace Barracks, just outside Belfast, where it works in close partnership with the Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) and other agencies to tackle the continuing threat.

Prior to 2007 it was the PSNI, and before it the Royal Ulster Constabulary (RUC), that had lead responsibility for the national security intelligence work relating to Northern Ireland. Investigations are now run in close co-operation with PSNI and in line with the terms of the St Andrews Agreement (2006). The PSNI continue to provide the operational police response in countering terrorism and protecting the community of Northern Ireland.

MI5 also works closely with its national security partner in the Republic of Ireland, the Crime and Security branch of An Garda Síochána (AGS).

The majority of current national security resource and attention is focused on dissident republicans as these groups pose the greatest threat. Some other groups, like loyalist paramilitary groups, pose further public order challenges for the PSNI. However, both PSNI and MI5 are also required to participate in other work connected to the legacy of conflict in Northern Ireland. For example, at the request of the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, MI5 and PSNI recently contributed to a report into paramilitary groups who declared ceasefire as part of the Good Friday Agreement, including the Irish National Liberation Army, the Provisional IRA and Loyalist Groups. Both MI5 and PSNI also continue to participate fully in an extensive range of ongoing historic enquiries.

In addition to normal oversight arrangements, national security arrangements in Northern Ireland are also subject to review by the Independent Reviewer of Terrorism Powers. By extension, MI5 also has contact with some of the policing oversight bodies, including the Police Ombudsman Northern Ireland.