Mary Mitchell O'Connor (Dún Laoghaire, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I have read the report on transfers and transparency. We do not feature in these reports as we do not have an arms industry and do not export small arms and light weapons. However, I take the Deputy's point that we manufacture components in the data industry that may be used. However, we are very careful and any application that comes to my Department undergoes strong and rigorous checks. The licence application is really scrutinised. We check with the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade and we ensure we do not contravene it.

I would also say that we are very careful. It is my intention to intensify the auditing process around export control and dual-use items. An additional staff member will be employed in the export licensing section.

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