Further arrests over Manchester bomb

Eight people are now being questioned over the Manchester Arena attack after a series of raids.

It follows two arrests this morning in what police are describing as a fast moving investigation – a woman arrested as part of the inquiries has been released without charge.

It’s understood all victims have now been identified – while medics say 20 of the 64 people who were injured after the Ariana Grande concert are in a critical condition.

Meanwhile,
The Taoiseach and senior ministers are being briefed this morning on Ireland’s readiness to deal with a terror attack similar to that at the Manchester Arena.

Various groups and agencies have been called to the early morning meeting (0730) at Government Buildings.

Ireland’s terror threat level is currently moderate – an attack is possible, but not likely.

But Enda Kenny told the Dáil yesterday he wants to ensure we’re as ready as we can be if there was to be an attack.

He’s calling in various agencies from defence, justice, transport and health for a security briefing this morning.

Mr Kenny says he was impressed by the first responders to Monday’s Manchester attack.

Here Gardaí have warned they are not trained, despite being the first response while there are also question marks about the ability of the health service to respond.