Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 16 February 2005
205 Mr. Sherlock asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he has taken action in regard to accusations from the US Government that a charity’s Dublin office was being used to help funnel massive financial support to terror groups linked to the network led by Osama bin Laden; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1505/05]
Amharc ar fhreagraI am informed by the Garda authorities that there is no evidence — nor has any been adduced — that any charity based in this jurisdiction is being used to facilitate the activities of terrorist groups.
Ireland remains fully committed to implementing its international obligations regarding terrorism and the financing of terrorism, as set out, inter alia, in a number of United Nations Security Council resolutions. In general, these resolutions require UN member states to criminalise the financing of terrorism; to freeze the funds, financial assets or economic resources of terrorists and terrorist entities; and to prohibit the provision of financial services to terrorists and terrorist entities.
Effect has been given to these UN resolutions within the European Union by means of implementing instruments which have direct application in all EU member states, including Ireland. These instruments provide for the drawing up of a list of groups and entities considered to be involved in terrorism and against which specific restrictive measures, principally the freezing of assets, can be applied. Additions may be made to the EU list on foot of proposals made by EU member states or third countries, including the United States of America.
