Seán Haughey (Dublin Bay North, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

Last Sunday week, it was revealed in television news bulletins that the Army Ranger Wing has been deployed to assist in the operation to repatriate Lisa Smith and her child. It was reported in the public domain that this operation is being led by the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade. Given that this is a very sensitive case, how did that get into the public domain? We are where we are. Details have been made public. It is important for the House to be updated on the situation. I presume we can confirm that a small team of Irish officials, supported by members of the Army Ranger Wing, have been in Turkey for several weeks. There was some criticism on the public airwaves today. It was suggested that the Government should have introduced new legislation to make it a specific crime to join Islamic State, particularly in a foreign country. I know the Criminal Justice (Terrorist Offences) Act 2005 is in place.

I acknowledge it is not within the remit of his Department but, as Minister he may wish to comment on what will happen to Lisa Smith when she returns to Ireland. Will she be questioned by the Garda? Is she a person of interest? Will she be under 24-hour surveillance? All these issues have been raised in the media today. Any information the Tánaiste could provide would be welcome. It has been suggested that she will be given travel documents and identity papers. The House would appreciate more information on the case. Although it is sensitive, details have been leaked for one reason or another and, as such, the position should be clarified.

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