Martin Kenny (Sligo-Leitrim, Sinn Fein)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

38. To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality the position regarding passport checks taking place on the Border at Garda checkpoints and on public transport; the rationale for this activity; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [40129/19]

Charles Flanagan (Laois, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

As the Deputy will appreciate, the Garda Commissioner is responsible for managing and controlling the administration and business of An Garda Síochána. Further, the allocation of Garda resources is a matter for the Commissioner, in light of identified operational demands. 

As the Deputy may be aware, the Garda National Immigration Bureau is a national unit which supports the immigration-related work of all the Garda Divisions across the country.

I am informed by the Garda authorities that the Immigration Border Control Unit conducts immigration checks along the border including on public service vehicles travelling from Northern Ireland and that these checks include inspection of the Enterprise train. I am further informed that these checks have been conducted for a number of years in order to identify and prevent persons from illegally entering the jurisdiction.

I am further informed that all members of the Immigration Border Control Unit have been provided with training on the Code of Ethics for An Garda Síochána, which sets out the standards and conduct expected of each member.

Such checks are fully compatible with the Good Friday Agreement and Common Travel Area arrangements.