Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 27 February 2019
88. Deputy Michael McGrath asked the Minister for Justice and Equality if persons have been found to be illegally entering Ireland through a port (details supplied) in recent weeks; if so, the number involved; the locations the immigrants came from; the outcome of the cases concerned; the position in relation to the immigration controls at the port; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [9865/19]
Amharc ar fhreagraA ferry service between the Irish port concerned and the port in Spain commenced operations on 9 May 2018. To date, twenty-six Albanian nationals have been intercepted at the Irish Port attempting to enter the State unlawfully. All twenty-six people were refused leave to land by Immigration Officers.
Seventeen people were removed from the State in accordance with Section 5 of the Immigration Act 2003 and returned to the port of their departure, five people sought International Protection and will have their claims dealt with in accordance with the International Protection Act 2015. A further four people are scheduled to be returned in accordance with Section 5 of the Immigration Act 2003.
There is an immigration presence at all arrival areas into the Port concerned and all vehicles and trailers are subject to checks. In order to maintain robust immigration controls at the Port, An Garda Síochána have liaised with Ferry Operators and local Port Officials. Garda management have travelled to Spain to meet with port officials and the Guardia Civil in order to reinforce working relationships and enhance coperation.
