GARDAÍ ARE INVESTIGATING a threatening phone call that claimed there was a bomb at the home of Justice Minister Helen McEntee. 

Gardaí visited the home of the justice minister last night after the bomb threat was made to the Samaritans charity, who in turn contacted the authorities.

The bomb scare at the minister’s home resulted in the gardaí rushing over to McEntee’s Meath home.

It is understood that a search of her home was carried out yesterday evening, but nothing of concern was discovered. Investigations by the gardaí are believed to be ongoing.

The gardaí said it does not comment on security matters when asked for a statment.

McEntee is pregnant with her first child and is due in May. The minister will become the first Cabinet minister to give birth while in office. 

Female public office holders have previously had to claim sick leave when they take time off to have and care for their children. However, McEntee has said she is taking six months leave, which the Taoiseach has said will be facilitated by government.

When contacted by TheJournal.ie, a spokesman for the minister declined to comment.