Maurice Cummins (Fine Gael)

On numerous occasions, I have warned in this House about the threat of dissident republicans and last night was another example. We must root out these people. They have no mandate in this country and they are a threat to democracy and to the institutions of this State.

In 2006, the then Minister, Michael McDowell, unveiled a new fingerprinting system to link up with British and other European police forces to detect immigrants illegally claiming social welfare. It was due to be operated by civil servants as part of an integrated system linked to ports and airports which would detect people using different identities to travel, particularly between Britain and here, to claim benefits. Civilian staff were hired by the Garda and expected to use the system. However, the 50 staff in question at the Garda National Immigration Bureau refused to operate the system, stating it was a job for gardaí. They sought more money and a greater allowance for the work. With more than €20 million spent on the system, it remains inoperable since 2006. The Croke Park agreement was established to end this type of practice and increase flexibility and productivity in the public service. Where is the progress when we see practices such as these continue in the public service? We need to get real about reform if we wish to drag ourselves out of the mire in which we are at present. I call on the Minister for Justice and Law Reform to come to the House and explain why he has allowed this situation to continue for so long. His predecessor, Mr. McDowell, stated the system would help strengthen the effectiveness of the immigration system and more rapidly detect and deal with identity abuse. Four years later, we have had no progress. It is not acceptable to have this happening at present when we need every penny we can get into the system and when we need to curb abuse occurring in the social welfare system.