Dessie Ellis (Dublin North West, Sinn Fein) | Oireachtas source

I find it difficult to understand when the Minister says he accepts the word of the American officials or the Embassy when representations are made in regard to different flights. It has been proven time and again that they have been economical with the truth. What is wrong with having the flights searched? What is wrong with having a situation where gardaí or the airport police would have the opportunity to examine any aeroplane at random, if they so choose? I do not see anything wrong with that.

I have had the experience of talking with people from Arab countries. They view us as not being neutral. They view us as part of the problem because they see themselves as under siege from America, Israel and so on. They view it differently, whether we like it or not. Therefore, we are putting our people at risk at Shannon Airport - that is the reality. There is a risk to people at Shannon because we do this, whether we like it or not.

I do not understand this. I experienced being extradited to England by aeroplane so I know the way the system works as I have seen it first-hand. I can tell the Minister it is far worse and far different to the image that is portrayed. The same thing happens in America, where I met Palestinians who ended up in jail there. I heard of the way they were treated and the way they were brought on aeroplanes from other countries to America. That is the reality. I do not see any reason that we should not have a situation where we can inspect these aeroplanes and not be confined to taking the word of a Government, an Ambassador or otherwise. I believe it is wrong.

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