Colm Brophy (Dublin South West, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I again thank the House for facilitating the motion and thank all the TDs who contributed. As I mentioned in my opening remarks, this proposal will enhance the ability of member and partner states to tackle crime more effectively in a rapidly evolving political, social and technological landscape. That was very clearly also mentioned by the last speaker. The third additional protocol, though itself introduced as several important updates aimed at modernising and streamlining mutual legal assistance procedures among Council of Europe member states, the main goal is to enhance cross-border co-operation in criminal matters, especially in the light of the digitalisation and evolving forms of crime.

On some of the comments made about human rights by some of the contributors, the third additional protocol reaffirms commitments to human rights, rule of law and democratic safeguards. All co-operation remains subject to Irish constitutional protections, the European Convention on Human Rights, domestic judicial oversight and data protection laws, which is of absolute importance. Also, to address the point, by opting in to the proposal now Ireland ensures we are at the table with our European partners and can be involved in detailed discussions of this proposal. People are challenging and questioning this but we are giving ourselves the opportunity to be involved. Opting in now to this proposal will ensure Ireland fulfils its declared intention to take part in the adoption of Title V measures to the maximum extent possible. As such, opting in will safeguard our international reputation and demonstrate Ireland’s commitment to the EU, ensuring we do not fall out of step with our European partners when it comes to issues relating to criminal proceedings and the European area of freedom, security and justice.

A little bit separate to this, earlier I read an interview given by the French National Front leader Bardella, and I have to say Deputy Carthy’s comments on the European Union and his are almost identical. The Deputy has very strange bedfellows when it comes to his view of the European Union. It is worth almost reading Bardella’s remarks because Deputy Carthy’s remarks in relation to how Europe works and his remarks are almost the same. I commend this motion to the House.

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