I propose to take Questions Nos. 728 and 729 and Questions Nos. 733 to 739, inclusive, together.
I will attend the Justice and Home Affairs Council which will take place in Luxembourg later this week. In that context, my general approach to the discussions will be to support the development of co-operation at EU level in line with the EU treaties. For me, this is particularly important when it comes to strengthening operational co-operation in the fight against terrorism and other forms of serious crime.
With regard to the items on the Council agenda, I should mention that many of the proposals have already been through the procedures provided for under the European Communities (Scrutiny) Act 2002. Additionally, a number of them have been the subject of specific presentations to Members of the Oireachtas. Moreover, Oireachtas approval will be required before Ireland can agree to the adoption of the legislative texts of the proposed framework decisions.
The general situation with regard to the relevant dossiers is that they are, for the most part, the subject of ongoing negotiations. In addition, it is the case that some of the items concerned have been placed on the agenda for information purposes. This includes the question of the adoption of a list of safe countries of origin where a proposal is expected to be introduced by the Commission in the near future.
I would, in particular, like to express my support for the current text of the proposed framework decision on the European evidence warrant. This is an initiative which appears to be close to conclusion and I am hopeful that it can be finalised at an early stage.
As far as the Schengen Convention is concerned, I would like to reiterate that Ireland has successfully applied to operate elements of the Schengen arrangements which are not concerned with the abolition of border checks. The approval of both Houses of the Oireachtas will be necessary in that connection. Accordingly, a motion seeking such approval will be introduced in Dáil Éireann and Seanad Éireann in due course.