Michael Healy-Rae (Kerry, Independent)
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407. To ask the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport his views on a matter (details supplied) regrading introducing new security measures in airports in the State. [23253/16]

Shane Ross (Dublin Rathdown, Independent)
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​The terrible attack at Ataturk Airport, and earlier this year the attack at Brussels Airport, are part of the wider context of International terrorism, and my first thoughts are with the families, relatives and friend of the victims of these attacks. The Garda Commissioner has statutory responsibility for threat assessment in Ireland including the assessment of threats to civil aviation. Currently the threat level in Ireland related to international terrorism is assessed by An Garda Síochána as moderate; that an attack is possible but is not likely.

Considerations with regard to security in the public areas of an airport, such as the check-in area, are similar to the consideration for any public space where people congregate. Protection of these public spaces is also a matter for An Garda Síochána in consultation with the Airport Operator.

In terms of any threat to civil aviation, it is the responsibility of the Airport Operator to ensure that aviation security standards are maintained and, with regard to the landside areas of the airport, that any additional aviation security measures are considered based on a local risk assessment. Aviation security arrangements, including for  Irish airports, are also kept under continuous review by the National Civil Aviation Security Committee, which is chaired by a senior official from my Department.  The Committee comprises representatives of, among others, Government Departments, An Garda Síochána, the Defence Forces, Airport Operators and Air Carriers.

For security reasons it is not possible for me to elaborate or comment on any specific security measures at airports in the State.