Security Workers Suspended After Failing To Detect Knife

Two airport security workers have been suspended after they failed to spot a concealed knife and other potentially dangerous items.

Irish Department of Transport officials slipped through the security point unchecked while posing as passengers.

It was reported that four further incidents were carried out when staff were 'caught out' during the random inspections.

Following the three previous incidents when security staff were detected by undercover inspectors, the staff were sent on two day 'retraining' courses.

However, this latest incident has resulted in the staff being suspended without pay for up to three months.

Department of Transport officials carry out regular site visits to the state's main airports to assess security procedures and practices as part of an international requirement for large airports.

During one such recent visit, officials managed to carry unauthorised and prohibited objects through the main security screening area at Shannon.

Two years ago, a department inspector carried a Swiss army knife in his pocket through security at the mid-west airport.

There have been similar incidents at Dublin Airport.

A new and expanded passenger screening area has recently opened at Shannon and is operated jointly by airport police officers and members of the new airport search unit.

(DW)