Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 23 May 2017
150. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality the extent to which An Garda Síochána has access as required to Interpol and Europol; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [24697/17]
View answerAn Garda Síochána is an active member of both Interpol and Europol and, as such, has access to the resources of both organisations in a similar manner as other member countries.
Ireland currently has three permanent officers allocated to Europol Headquarters in The Hague, Netherlands including one (1) officer from the Revenue Commissioners and two (2) Detective Sergeants from An Garda Síochána. A designated Europol National Unit (ENU) is also maintained in Garda Headquarters, under the direction of Assistant Commissioner, Security & Intelligence. The ENU serves as the liaison body between the authorities in Ireland and Europol.
Interpol is the world’s largest police organisation, with over 190 member countries worldwide. Ireland has been a member of Interpol since 1947, with the National Central Bureau (NCB) based in Garda Headquarters, again under the direction of Assistant Commissioner Security & Intelligence.
Ireland has the same access rights as other countries to Interpol channels, databases and other investigative tools.
