Bertie Ahern (Dublin Central, Fianna Fail)

Deputy Kenny will recall that after the events of September 2001 I mentioned on a number of occasions that the Garda was involved in operational matters relating to a small number of suspects linked to al-Qaeda. This is what has emanated from these reports which suggest there were six units associated with Islamic terrorist organisations active here. These units were described as logistical and financial cells giving operational support.

It is the responsibility of embassies around the world to inquire and report on matters of interest to their authorities. I am aware of recent media coverage of the assessment report of 2003 by the US embassy in Dublin and this assessment was based on information, gleaned mainly from Garda sources, relating to Islamic terrorist organisations. I do not wish to comment on these reports but I understand the information was supplied by the Garda and recycled.

More importantly, the monitoring and investigation of any groups suspected of engaging in or associating with terrorism is an operational matter for the Garda. I am satisfied the Garda is vigilant in fully meeting this responsibility and has reported to us, from time to time, on small groups and individuals that are being monitored. Deputies will appreciate it is not possible to address in the House the methods and strategies employed by the security services in countering such risks. There is very close co-operation between agencies dealing with security matters and the necessary resources are supplied for this purpose. Much information is gained through Europol, Interpol and the international agencies.

Thankfully the units in Ireland linked with Islamic terrorist organisations are small in number; I would not like them to be associated in any way with the Islamic community in the country and I recognise that this has not been suggested. The Islamic community in Ireland has been very responsive and co-operative in dealing with such matters and the Government and security services are always confident of the support of the Irish Islamic community in its commitment to countering activities related to terrorism. The few who are watched closely usually move into the international domain, though they do exist.

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