Police in Limerick have confirmed that an investigation is underway into the statements made at a commemoration ceremony in the city, in which threats were made against Irish people serving in the British army.

The threats were made at the annual Seán South commemoration ceremony, which was organised by Sinn Féin. It was attended by about 50 people and a number of them were dressed in paramilitary uniforms.

Irish men and women who are members of the British army were warned that serving in the British military was a legitimate target for the dissident republican group, in a statement which was read out on behalf of the continuity IRA prisoners in Portlaoise.

Police had a presence at the commemoration march held on Sunday in Limerick and also in Mount St Lawrence Cemetery, but no arrests were made.

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According to RTE News, a senior garda said any statements or activities that suggest actions that are unlawful or illegal are fully investigated.

Sinn Féin Limerick city councillor Maurice Quinlivan said the threats on Sunday had “no place in a modern Ireland.”

A spokesman for Sinn Féin in Dublin said yesterday's commemoration in Limerick had not been organised by them. He said they had organised their own commemoration at Seán South's grave last Saturday.

Fianna Fáil justice spokesperson Niall Collins, a Limerick TD, described yesterday's activities and the statements made as disgraceful and regretful.

He remarked that a trend was emerging in recent times of these types of displays.