Garda Operations.

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 18 November 2008

Tuesday, 18 November 2008

Ceisteanna (280)

Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin

Ceist:

344 Deputy Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if, in view of the arrest of a person (details supplied), gardaí are aware that Irish citizens, including naturalised Irish citizens, are not required to carry proof of their citizenship; and the way he will ensure in the future that Irish citizens of immigrant origin are not targeted and arrested on suspicion of immigration violations simply because they are not carrying proof of their Irish citizenship. [41200/08]

Freagraí scríofa

Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform (Deputy Dermot Ahern)

Members of An Garda Síochána are, of course, aware that Irish citizens are not required to carry proof of their citizenship. Section 12 of the Immigration Act 2004 allows members of An Garda Síochána to require a non-national to produce on demand a valid passport or other equivalent document, issued by or on behalf of an authority recognised by the Government, which establishes his or her identity and nationality. Members of An Garda Síochána may on occasion need to carry out certain checks in order to confirm a person's identity and citizenship.

The Garda Customer Charter outlines the Garda Síochána's commitment to respecting customers and their needs, protecting human rights, and ensuring a caring service approach.