| ID | 148913 |
| Title Proper | Shadowboxing in the dark |
| Other Title Information | intelligence and counter-terrorism in Northern Ireland |
| Language | ENG |
| Author | Finegan, Rory |
| Summary / Abstract (Note) | The British experience in Northern Ireland, particularly the fight against the Provisional Irish Republican Army (PIRA), is an oft-cited case study in the counter-insurgency (COIN) spectrum and tome of counter-terrorism studies. It is the totality of the British intelligence experience in Northern Ireland, with its successes and challenges, which make it such a valuable case study from which to draw insight to shape contemporary COIN intelligence-based operations. As the conflict was both prolonged and intensified, a multitude of intelligence units from military and law enforcement evolved specifically to counter the effectiveness of PIRA; and to satisfy the desire of the security establishment to intensify information-gathering activities. This article examines the evolution and development of this security intelligence-driven effort that ultimately had the cumulative effect to wear down PIRA’s military capability through the focused application of a prolonged and lavishly resourced linked intelligence apparatus as an adjunct of a heavy military and police footprint. Nevertheless, despite Northern Ireland being a relatively small geographical area, the eventual containment of PIRA took years to achieve, demonstrating just how difficult it is to address a committed and determined insurgency. This highlights that a successful COIN strategy is arguably best predicated on the need for “patient” as opposed to “decisive” operations. |
| `In' analytical Note | Terrorism and Political Violence Vol. 28,Vol.3 :Jul-Aug 2016: p.497-519 |
| Journal Source | Terrorism and Political Violence Vol: 28 No 3 |
| Key Words | Northern Ireland ; Counter-Terrorism ; Containment |