Common Travel Area.

Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 10 November 2004

Wednesday, 10 November 2004

Questions (130)

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

177 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if he has received a response directly or through the Irish Embassy in London from the Foreign Office or the Home Office, relating to the detention of an Irish singer-songwriter who was detained at Holyhead under the Prevention of Terrorism Act 2000; if he has received reassurances in line with his request; if an apology has been offered; if an agreement has been reached regarding such matters in the future; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [28426/04]

Written answers

Minister for Foreign Affairs (Mr. D. Ahern)

The Home Office responded on 1 November to the initial complaint made through the Irish Embassy, London. This response has been passed to the Irish citizen in question, whom my officials met on 9 November. As the Deputy will understand, citizens have a right to expect that the substance of their communication with my Department on such matters will be maintained in confidence and therefore, against this background, I will not comment further on the detail of the case at this stage.

This case and the issues it gives rise to regarding the operation of the Terrorism Act 2000 and its effects on Irish citizens moving within the common travel area are matters of ongoing discussion and consideration between my Department, our embassy in London and the British authorities.