A MAJOR security review is underway at Limerick courthouse after legal practitioners complained about security risks in the aftermath of an incident in which a teenager brandished a samurai sword in the courthouse foyer.

Three weeks ago, a 16-year-old attempted to assault a young man with a full length sword in the foyer of Limerick circuit court. Onlookers ran for cover and a full-scale fight erupted. One garda managed to tackle the assailant from behind, preventing him from seriously injuring anyone with the sword. Officers made three arrests after the incident. The teenager had hidden the sword in his trousers before he took it out and began swinging it at his target. The row was between two Traveller families.

The Courts Service confirmed that a review of security at Limerick courthouse is now underway. Some barristers and solicitors who work at the courthouse have questioned why metal detectors are not in full-time operation for everyone entering the building. "The local practitioners have asked that we examine the current arrangements in Limerick. In this regard we will contact the garda chief superintendent of the district regarding the management of people outside the court, and we have initiated a review of the CCTV capability to ensure that all areas are covered, and to investigate the possibility of further coverage and monitoring of activity on the public square to the front of the building," said a spokesman.

Last month, controversial Limerick solicitor John Devane alleged he was assaulted in Limerick district court by a criminal involved in serious feuding. He later refused to make a complaint to gardaí about the incident.

Ken Murphy, the Law Society's director general, said security was a major issue at Limerick courthouse. "In recent years, moves have been made to increase security for all users of the Four Courts in Dublin. Proper standards in security must be provided to protect all court users wherever they may be at risk."

The most visible security at Limerick courthouse was evident in July when convicted murderer Gary Campion (26), from Moyross, was handed down a second life sentence for murder.

Up to 50 members of the gardaí, including armed members of the Regional Support Unit, patrolled the perimeter of the building during the hearing. Journalists, solicitors and barristers entering the building had to produce identification to armed gardaí. Metal detectors were also used to search members of the public entering the court.