Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 17 January 2024
996. Deputy Michael McNamara asked the Minister for Justice how many prosecutions have been initiated in respect of alleged offences under section 11 of the Immigration Act 2004; the outcome of any such prosecutions; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [56309/23]
View answerAs the Deputy will be aware, the prosecution of offences in these instances are a matter for An Garda Síochána and the Director of Public Prosecutions, who are independent in the exercise of their functions in this regard; as Minister I have no role in the taking of such prosecutions. I have, however, requested information in respect of such prosecutions from An Garda Síochána and will provide it to the Deputy when received.
The State has a duty to protect its borders and following examination, ensure that all arriving passengers are entitled to enter the State. This is a fundamental exercise of State sovereignty, which is necessary to protect the security of the State and to prevent illegal immigration. The exercise of powers in this area is at all times subject to the law and to respect for individual rights.
Immigration officials conduct passport checks, and run operations as required, to ensure passengers arriving in the State are properly documented in accordance with Section 11 of the Immigration Act 2004.
When a person is refused leave to land at Dublin Airport, the Immigration Officer will arrange for the person to be referred to the Garda National Immigration Bureau (GNIB) for removal from the State. The priority in such circumstances is to return them on the next available return flight to the last point of embarkation.
