Charles Flanagan (Laois, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I wish to reiterate the importance of member states working together on areas where co-operation enhances our individual efforts. I say so particularly in light of recent tragedies that have affected European citizens in several member states. That we in Ireland have not been the subject of a terrorist threat does not mean we are in some way immune. I acknowledge the work of the Garda and intelligence organisations, both internally and with our EU colleagues, to ensure the safety and protection of citizens in Ireland and the rest of the Union.

I thank Deputy Jim O'Callaghan, in particular, for his support. To respond to a number of questions he has raised, the office in respect of the thematic organisation will be in the EU Commission office in Brussels from where the fund is disbursed and administered. As far as the working of the thematic facility is concerned, member states will be actively involved in a negotiation process. Member states will set the priorities for the thematic facility, which will be used for specific actions from time to time where the need arises, particularly emergency assistance that may be appropriate.

I acknowledge the concerns of Deputy Ó Laoghaire. I do not believe his concerns warrant an abstention on the part of his party but I assure him on the limited scope of the operation. I refer again to the objectives I mentioned in my opening comments. Any actions with a military or defence purpose, or the purchases of any customs-control equipment, are not ordinarily eligible for support under the fund. I assure the Deputy in that regard.

I do not necessarily agree with the overall perspective shared by Deputy Eamon Ryan. He fails to see a need for organised counter-terrorism policies across the European Union.

I acknowledge the work Ireland does with its EU colleagues in terms of close co-operation in counterterrorism and also Ireland's influence in the broader international arena, with particular reference to the United Nations. Ireland's campaign for a place on the Security Council in 2021-22 is important and I hope that campaign has the support of every Member of the House, including the Green Party and the wider international Green movement. Ireland's soft power internationally is important.

I strongly believe we should participate fully in the adoption and application of each of the proposed measures. In doing so not only will we benefit from the financial assistance in pursuit of the various forms of police co-operation to which the measure relates but also our participation enables us to have a say in their final content.

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