Vol. 557 No. 1
228 Mr. R. Bruton asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if he has investigated the different treatment which persons travelling to the Republic of Ireland receive in UK airports; if he has satisfied himself that the treatment afforded to Irish citizens is fair and equitable and that security or other checks are proportionate to any differential security risks which might be involved; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21260/02]
The Government understands the necessity for governments, including the British Government, to deal effectively with the threat of terrorism. At the same time, we are concerned that the application of provisions of the Prevention of Terrorism Act, such as the powers relating to airport and border controls, should be applied sensitively and in such a way that they do not cause embarrassment to travellers or discriminate against persons travelling between the two islands. The Government's view has been made known to the British authorities on many occasions.
The Government also expressed its concern at the retention in the Terrorism Act, 2000, of the powers to question, without the need for reasonable suspicion, travellers between Ireland and Britain.
The Department of Foreign Affairs follows up on issues or concerns raised by Irish citizens using British ports and airports. Clarification is sought from the British authorities, through the Irish Embassy in London, on a case by case basis and this is followed up, as appropriate.
