An escalating series of threats made to Tánaiste Simon Harris in recent weeks went from an online threat to kidnap his children to co-ordinated bomb warnings on his Wicklow home.

Politicians say online trolling and verbal abuse now goes with the territory; dealing with it is part of the job.

Some have also had to face threats to their families with those against Harris being the latest.

It has prompted a debate about the growing security risks faced by our politicians.

But what can the Garda do, and typically who makes these threats and why?

Irish Times crime and security correspondent Conor Lally explains.

Presented by Bernice Harrison. Produced by Andrew McNair. 

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