The Pat Kenny Show What are the biggest threats facing the State?
Aug 18, 2025
The dangers outlined in a Garda intelligence report reveal espionage and extremist ideologies threatening Ireland. Foreign spies, particularly from hostile states, are eyeing the nation’s high-tech and pharmaceutical sectors for intellectual property theft. Techniques range from physical infiltration to cyber hacking. Additionally, the podcast dives into the risks of election interference, mainly from Russia, and examines the growing concern of homegrown extremism fueled by social media. The discussion emphasizes the need for enhanced intelligence and resources to tackle these evolving threats.
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Top Threats: Espionage And Extremism
- Garda intelligence identifies espionage and ideological extremism as Ireland's top threats.
- The report warns hostile states seek sensitive information while domestic extremism grows.
Which States Pose The Biggest Risk
- Cathal Berry names China and Russia as primary hostile state actors targeting Ireland.
- He also mentions Iran as a possible but lesser concern due to recent developments.
Ireland's Tech And Pharma Are Vulnerable
- Ireland's technology, pharma and medtech sectors make it attractive for intellectual property theft.
- Berry explains stolen IP gives competitive advantage through reverse engineering abroad.