Helen McEntee (Meath East, Fine Gael)
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I refer to the Deputy's question as to whether or not An Garda Síochána or the Department of Justice has made funding applications for projects under the EU Anti-Fraud Programme in 2023 and to-date in 2024. At the time, I contacted the Garda authorities for the information requested by the Deputy. Regrettably, this information was not available in time.

I am now advised that the EU Anti-Fraud Programme (2021-2027) has the following general objectives:

- protecting the financial interests of the European Union by supporting action to combat irregularities, fraud and corruption affecting the EU budget;

- supporting mutual assistance between administrative authorities in EU Member States;

- ensuring the correct application of the law on customs and agricultural matters by supporting cooperation between administrative authorities in EU Member States and the European Commission

The programme provides funding, in particular, for technical and operational investigation equipment, specialised training and research activities, to support the protection of EU financial interests.

I can confirm to the Deputy that neither An Garda Síochána nor my Department have made any applications under this programme.