Paul Murphy (Dublin South West, Anti-Austerity Alliance)
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199. To ask the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade his views on reports from a group (details supplied) that Italian authorities tortured migrants, including beatings, sexual humiliation and electric shocks, to meet an EU target of 100% of migrants giving fingerprints; if he will raise the issue with his Italian and EU counterparts; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34114/16]

Charles Flanagan (Laois, Fine Gael)
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If the allegations made by Amnesty International were to be substantiated, it would be a very serious matter and a cause of great concern. All migrants possess universally-acknowledged fundamental and inalienable human rights and freedoms. In addition, such behaviour would be in complete violation of the safeguards set out in the EU legislation governing the Common European Asylum System, including the regulation regarding the taking of the fingerprints of applicants for asylum, which is a necessary part of the system.

I note that the Italian authorities, who are recognised as having played a very positive role in saving the lives of many thousands of migrants in the Mediterranean, have described the allegations made in the Amnesty report as “totally false”, and the Italian police have categorically denied that violent methods are used.

I will ensure that the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality, as the Minister with responsibility for asylum issues, is made aware of these allegations, and I have also asked our Ambassador to Italy to monitor and report on any developments.