Niall Collins (Limerick County, Fianna Fail)

I thank all the Deputies for their contributions, which I have listened to carefully. I also thank Deputy Crowe for a very insightful contribution about the reach of Irish missionaries as far as Korea. We know the outstanding contribution of Irish missionaries around the world and that was another example of it.

I reiterate that the proposed opt-in concerns a proposal for a Council decision authorising the opening of negotiations for an agreement between the EU and the Republic of Korea on the transfer of PNR data. PNR data is a widely used law enforcement tool in the EU and beyond to combat terrorism and serious crime such as human trafficking and drug-related offences. The collection and analysis of PNR data can enable the relevant authorities to detect suspicious travel patterns and identify criminals and terrorists, and their associates. Ireland is bound by the relevant EU PNR directive. Adequate data protection safeguards and respect for the fundamental rights of citizens will be a core component of the negotiations with the Republic of Korea. The existing adequacy decision referred to by the Commission in its proposal is a strong indicator that any transfer of data from the EU to the Republic of Korea will be appropriately protected.

We have previously supported similar agreements in this area and it is recommended for operational and policy reasons that we exercise our right to opt in under Article 3 to this proposal so that we can input into the negotiations from the outset. I again highlight that the motion before is simply an opt-in to participate in the negotiations. It is not an opt-in to begin exchanging PNR with the Republic of Korea. The agreement reached at the end of the negotiations will provide the legal basis for that exchange. It will require Ireland to exercise another opt in under Protocol 21 at the time to benefit from the enhanced police co-operation it will offer.

Deputy Mark Ward raised a point about PNR data being collected from airline travel and not from other forms of travel. The Commission has published feasibility studies examining the possible use of advanced passenger information from land and maritime travel operators. Ireland does not have the applicable long-distance rail or road routes but will continue to monitor developments on maritime travel arising from these studies. The PNR directive is also being evaluated and there may be scope for amendments at the appropriate time. The point is noted.

I trust that the House can support the exercise of Ireland's opt-in in this instance and, therefore, approve the motion to participate in the Council decision authorising the opening of negotiations. I thank the Deputies for their contributions and careful consideration.

See this speech in context