Éamon Ó Cuív (Galway West, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

45. To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality the consideration she has given to the most recent report of the independent reporting committee that was set up under the Fresh Start Agreement to monitor progress on tackling paramilitary activity in Northern Ireland; the actions, if any, she intends taking based on the report; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [35993/22]

Helen McEntee (Meath East, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

The Independent Reporting Commission plays a very important role in highlighting what still needs to be done to tackle residual paramilitarism in Northern Ireland.  

To facilitate monitoring of the implementation of measures aimed at ending paramilitary activity in Northern Ireland, the 2015 Fresh Start Agreement provided for the establishment by the two Governments of the Independent Reporting Commission.

In summary, the Commission’s functions are to report annually on progress towards ending continuing paramilitary activity connected with Northern Ireland; report on the implementation of the relevant measures of the three administrations; and to consult with relevant stakeholders in this regard. 

The Commission submitted its first report to the Governments in 2018, and its most recent report was received at the end of last year.

The Secretary of State for Northern Ireland and I have welcomed the reports. They provide an opportune reminder of the continuing adverse impact of paramilitarism on society in Northern Ireland. The Reports set out a pathway to achieving progress.

The Commission, in their Reports, note the extent and effectiveness of the co-operation between the Authorities in both jurisdictions to tackle paramilitary activity and associated criminality.

In each report, the Commission also make a number of recommendations. I have met with the Commission to hear about the progress that it has been making in carrying out its functions and to provide any assistance this Government can offer to achieve its task. These meetings with members of the Commission have always been very informative and constructive.

The reports of the IRC and their recommendations continue to be considered as part of the British Irish Intergovernmental Conference with my colleague the Minister for Foreign Affairs and the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland.