Mattie McGrath (Tipperary South, Independent)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

312. To ask the Minister for Justice and Equality the actions her Department is taking to monitor jihadis from Britain and mainland Europe who may be using Ireland as a transit point on the way to Syria and Iraq; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [2226/15]

Frances Fitzgerald (Dublin Mid West, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

There is considerable concern across Europe and elsewhere at the phenomenon of individuals travelling to conflict areas in the Middle East and the possible threat to national security by those who return from these areas. The events in Paris and Brussels are the most recent manifestations of this threat in some time. The events show that all States must remain vigilant and attentive to the risks posed by this phenomenon.

I am aware of recent media comments to the effect that Ireland is being used as a transit hub for persons travelling to Syria or Iraq. I have already made it clear that there is no evidence that Ireland is a particular transit hub for persons to travel to Turkey on the way to Syria and Iraq, any more than any country with international flight connections can be said to be a transit hub for these persons. I should add that Ireland already has strong immigration controls in place and cooperates fully in exchanges of information with other countries.

There are a small number of people based here who support extremism and would try to facilitate others to travel to conflict zones. The activities of these people are closely monitored by An Garda Síochána. There is also very close cooperation with security services in other jurisdictions.

Ireland, like any other democratic country with similar values, is not immune to a threat from international terrorism. While an attack on Ireland is possible it is not assessed as likely. There is no specific information in relation to a threat to Ireland. An Garda Síochána are keeping the level of threat from international terrorism under continuous review in light of ongoing developments and continuing to take all appropriate measures to counteract this threat. In this they have the full support of the Government.

The Government is committed to ensuring that the necessary legislation is in place to address terrorist threats. The Criminal Justice (Terrorist Offences) (Amendment) Bill 2014 has already passed all stages in the Seanad. The Bill, when enacted, will create the three new offences of, public provocation to commit a terrorist offence, recruitment for terrorism and training for terrorism. These offences will carry sentences of up to 10 years imprisonment on conviction on indictment. It is expected that the Bill will come before the Dáil shortly.