Alan Shatter (Minister, Department of Justice, Equality and Defence; Dublin South, Fine Gael)

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I am aware of the matter to which the Deputy refers. Upheaval and conflict in Syria in particular has seen the spectacle of many individuals travelling from Europe to the fighting and tragically a number of our citizens have lost their lives there.

This is an issue of concern to the majority of European States and one to which I gave priority during the Irish Presidency of the Council of the European Union. In that connection Ireland was successful in gaining the agreement of the Member States to carry out a review of the EU Strategy for Countering Radicalisation and Recruitment to Terrorism. Work is currently ongoing on this matter at various levels within the EU. One of the aspects to be addressed in the review is that of how best to manage the "foreign fighter" phenomenon. In addition, Ireland is also a member of a small group of like minded States, that was set up during the Irish Presidency to develop a response to this issue and I have met with my EU Ministerial colleagues in this regard.

The development of appropriate responses to the foreign fighter phenomenon is at a very early stage across the EU. However, it is widely accepted that a key element in addressing this problem is a programme of pro-active engagement with the communities most affected with a view to persuading those inclined to travel that there may be more beneficial and positive ways of contributing to a resolution of the conflict than simply taking up arms. In that regard, An Garda Síochána operates one of the most forward thinking programmes of community relations and racial integration in Europe through its Garda Racial, Intercultural and Diversity Office. The Office is in contact with many of our minority communities through its network of Ethnic Liaison Officers and is there to discuss all matters of concern to these communities, including those related to the conflicts in the Middle East. Furthermore, An Garda Siochána is a member of the EU's Radicalisation Awareness Network which was set up by the EU Commission to develop responses and best practices in the field of radicalisation including a foreign fighters dimension and this work is continuing.