Vol. 573 No. 3
554 Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform his views on the conflict between the European Parliament and the European Commission regarding the transfer of airline passenger data, including credit card numbers, to the United States in violation of EU data protection laws; and the Government's position in this regard. [24792/03]
The position is that discussions took place earlier this year between the European Commission and the US Administration with a view to finding a solution to the problems arising for airlines operating flights to and from the US as a result of the passenger name record, PNR, requirements set out in the US Aviation and Transportation Security Act 2001. The main objective was to reconcile the US requirements with the requirements of EU data protection law.
The outcome of these discussions was an interim arrangement which enabled US Customs to have access to passenger name record, PNR, data held by airlines in their computerised reservations systems for passengers travelling to, from or through the US with effect from 5 March 2003.
Discussions are ongoing between the European Commission and the US Administration with a view to finding a longer-term solution. Concern has been expressed in the European Parliament about the lack of progress and a resolution adopted by the European Parliament on 9 October calls on the Commission to reach a solution within two months. The European Commission has consulted the member states and has received broad support for its negotiating position. Moreover, the member states are informed of developments on a regular basis.
