Cormac Devlin (Dún Laoghaire, Fianna Fail)

I, too, welcome the opportunity to speak in support of these two important motions, which authorise Ireland to opt in to two EU agreements with Iceland and Norway on the transfer of passenger name record data. These agreements are more than just legal instruments. They are vital tools in our shared European effort to prevent terrorism and combat serious transnational crime. In a world where organised crime networks and terrorist threats are increasingly international in nature, the ability to share key data across borders is essential. Passenger name record data includes basic booking information collected by airlines, namely, travel dates, itineraries, contact details and payment methods. On its own, it might not seem significant but when analysed systematically and lawfully, it can help identify suspicious travel patterns, uncover sleeper cells and support real-time investigation.

Ireland is already bound by the EU’s PNR directive and operates a dedicated passenger information unit within the Department of Justice. However, our current arrangements with Iceland and Norway rely on an ad hoc, case-by-case data-sharing system. This is cumbersome and reactive. By opting in to these agreements, we enable more efficient, secure and rights-compliant data exchange, benefiting not only our own national security but also that of our European partners.

These agreements are built on a strong legal foundation. They uphold the Charter of Fundamental Rights of the European Union and incorporate stringent safeguards around data use, retention and privacy. Personal data must be depersonalised after six months and deleted within five years. Sensitive information is strictly excluded. Importantly, no automated decision-making can occur without human oversight. Ireland has already opted in to similar PNR agreements with Australia, the United States, the United Kingdom and, most recently, Canada. I have spoken on these before in the House. These agreements have proven their value and it is both consistent and prudent that we extend the same co-operation to two close EEA neighbours, Iceland and Norway. I acknowledge the proactive stance taken by the Minister in bringing these motions forward. I commend him on the concrete steps he has already taken to secure and strengthen our borders and rebuild public confidence in that system.

There are no legal or operational barriers to Ireland’s participation and it is right that we approve this opt-in ahead of the summer recess, within, as the Minister has stated, the Article 3 deadline under Protocol 21. In conclusion, this is about protecting lives, defending democracy and upholding our obligations under European law in a proportionate and transparent way. I support these motions and I urge the House to do the same.

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