Patrick O'Donovan (Limerick, Fine Gael)
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249. To ask the Minister for Social Protection further to Parliamentary Question No. 112 of 21 November, in relation to social welfare fraud detection at airports, if she will extend the detection to the other airports in the State and the passenger ferry terminals; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [52479/13]

Joan Burton (Dublin West, Labour)
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The Social Welfare Act 2012 made provision for social welfare inspectors to undertake power of enquiry at ports and airports. In line with the powers that are provided for in the legislation, social welfare inspectors have the authority to attend and make enquiry at any port or airport. These powers are designed to deal specifically with incidences of welfare tourism or non-residency.

My Department reviews and adjusts the approach to control activity and fraud investigations in the light of operational experience and evidence; this includes its activity in ports and airports. In this regard, increased activity at ports and airports is being considered.