Important Facts of the News
- Asset freeze announced on 6 November 2025 against the New IRA and Kieran Gallagher.
- Sanctions block dealing with their funds or economic resources without a licence.
- Gallagher also faces director disqualification sanctions.
- Second use of the Treasury led domestic counter terrorism sanctions system for Northern Ireland related terrorism.
- Sanctions apply across the UK, Crown Dependencies, Overseas Territories and to UK persons and firms globally.
- Breaching the asset freeze or related prohibitions is a criminal offence.
- Asset freeze does not transfer ownership of funds to HM Treasury.
UK action targets New IRA finances
The United Kingdom has taken fresh steps to restrict access to financial systems for the New Irish Republican Army and an individual suspected of involvement in terrorist activity. The action, confirmed on 6 November 2025, places a full freeze on any funds or economic resources linked to the New IRA or to Kieran Gallagher. Anyone bound by UK sanctions must not handle such assets or provide financial services to them unless authorised by a valid licence or exception.
Restrictions on financial dealings and company involvement
The measures prevent any person or organisation required to comply with UK sanctions from using, transferring or providing access to assets associated with either the New IRA or Gallagher. This includes money or other economic resources owned, held or controlled directly or indirectly, including through entities they control. The restrictions also cover the provision of financial services or economic benefits to them or for their gain.
In addition, Gallagher has been barred from serving as a director of a company in the UK. He is also blocked from taking part, whether directly or through others, in the creation, running or promotion of any company.
Government intent to safeguard peace and stability
The Economic Secretary to the Treasury, Lucy Rigby KC MP, stated that this latest step is the second time the UK has used its Treasury led domestic sanctions regime aimed at tackling terrorism linked to Northern Ireland. She noted that the government remains committed to upholding the peace supported by the Good Friday Agreement. The action forms part of wider efforts to ensure the protection of national security for people across the UK.
Reasons for the sanctions
New IRA
The New IRA has been subjected to an asset freeze for engaging in and enabling acts connected to terrorism. The grounds include responsibility for involvement in the planning and execution of terrorist acts, supporting and encouraging terrorism, and recruiting people for involvement in terrorism.
Kieran Gallagher
Gallagher faces both an asset freeze and a ban on holding directorships. He is suspected of involvement in terrorist activity by providing financial services or making funds or resources available for such purposes, and by facilitating terrorism.
Legal scope of the sanctions
From 6 November 2025, both Gallagher and the New IRA fall under the Counter Terrorism Sanctions Regulations introduced after the EU exit. These rules apply within the UK, its Crown Dependencies and Overseas Territories, and extend to UK nationals and companies abroad. The freeze covers any funds or economic resources held for the New IRA, including assets held by nominees acting to hide the real ownership.
It is a criminal offence to breach the freeze or to help others bypass the restrictions, including making funds or services available directly or through intermediaries. While the asset freeze prevents access or movement of funds, it does not transfer ownership of the assets to the government.