Dáil Éireann díospóireacht -
Tuesday, 19 Feb 2002

Vol. 548 No. 5

Written Answers. - EU Regulations.

Michael D. Higgins

Ceist:

392 Mr. M. Higgins asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the implications for Ireland regarding council regulations on the development of the second generation Schengen information system in view of the anti-terrorist legislation introduced in Britain and the derogation from the European Charter on Human Rights of the Council of Europe on Britain's part, as it may affect the Schengen acquis as to the free movement of persons within the European Union; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5739/02]

Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform (Mr. O'Donoghue):

Ireland has applied to par ticipate in aspects of the Schengen acquis, including the Council regulation on the development of the second generation Schengen information system. We will not be participating in the provisions of the acquis which relate to the abolition of border controls and free movement of persons.

I intend to bring a motion before the Houses in the near future seeking approval for Ireland's participation in aspects of the Schengen acquis, with a view to having the application approved by the Justice and Home Affairs Council at its next meeting on 28 February 2002.

I presume the UK anti-terrorist legislation to which the Deputy refers is the Anti-terrorism Crime and Security Act, 2001. This has no bearing on Ireland's application to participate in the Schengen acquis.