Vol. 501 No. 6
364 Mr. Gormley asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if his attention has been drawn to a joint European police studies course at Templemore Garda College in County Tipperary; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7072/99]
The course referred to by the Deputy has been taking place at Templemore Garda College since 15 February 1999 and concludes on Friday next, 12 March. It is part of a programme involving training events in six member states of the European Union. In addition to attendance from EU member states there are participants from the Baltic States and Eastern European countries. The initiative is supported by the European Commission under the OISIN Programme and is co-funded by the Commission and the participating countries.
During its Presidency of the EU in 1996, Ireland brought forward proposals for the establishment of a framework, including funding arrangements, to develop and enhance co-operation between EU police, customs and other law enforcement authorities. This initiative, known as the OISIN Programme, was adopted at the European Council in Dublin in December 1996. The programme envisages co-operation between member states' law enforcement authorities in the form of exchange and training. Projects may also involve the accession countries.
