Troops Will Not Deploy To Streets Of Northern Ireland

The military will not be deployed onto the streets of Northern Ireland, as the threat level from international terrorism is raised to 'critical'.

Armed police patrols are being increased in the country, however.

The move is in response to an increase in the threat level across the UK from 'severe' to critical, meaning another attack is expected imminently.

Police Service of Northern Ireland Chief Constable George Hamilton said:.

"This critical threat level also applies to Northern Ireland. In response to this increased threat I have reviewed our operational profile.

"The public will see an increased police presence at iconic sites, our transport networks and where large numbers of people congregate."

He added that Op Temperer - the military deployment in response to the Manchester attacks - will not apply in Northern Ireland.

Mr Hamilton warned that the current threat level from violent dissident republicans also remains severe. He added:

"Events in Manchester are at the forefronts of all our minds. We send our thoughts and our sympathy to those who have lost loved ones and to the injured."

"We also send our support to the people of Manchester and to the police officers and staff at Greater Manchester Police.

"The PSNI will continue to do all we can operationally to keep people safe. However, I would ask the public, as always, to remain vigilant and alert to any suspicious activity and report anything untoward to police."