33 Polish, Lithuanian citizens removed from State

Dublin Airport saw the departure of a charter flight this afternoon carrying 33 Polish and Lithuanian citizens who have been removed from the State. The removals were confirmed by the Minister for Justice, and all individuals had previously received custodial sentences for various criminal offenses.

Details of the Removals

Thirty-one of those removed were male, with two being female, and their ages ranged from their early 20s to early 60s. According to An Garda Síochána, 20 of the individuals were currently serving sentences at the time of their removal. The remaining 13 had been arrested, detained, and held in prison prior to being placed on the flight.

Range of Offenses

The offenses committed by those removed encompassed a wide spectrum, from multiple road traffic violations – including driving without insurance – to more serious crimes such as sexual assault, drug offenses, and involvement in organized crime. The Department of Justice stated that these removals are permissible under the Free Movement Directive, which allows for the removal of EU citizens who pose a danger to public policy, public security, or public health.

Did You Know? The charter flight departed Dublin Airport at 12.30pm and proceeded to Warsaw, Poland, before continuing to Vilnius, Lithuania.

The cost of the aircraft for this operation was €122,000, as stated by the Department of Justice. Accompanying the individuals removed were garda personnel, medical staff, two interpreters, and a human rights observer. The cost of personnel accompanying the flight was not disclosed.

Legal Framework and Ministerial Statement

Minister for Justice Jim O’Callaghan emphasized that restricting freedom of movement – a fundamental right for EU citizens – is not taken lightly. However, he asserted that consequences must follow when an individual’s behavior warrants a loss of privilege. He stated his commitment to enforcing removal orders for those deemed a danger to Irish society.

Expert Insight: The increasing number of removals under the Free Movement Directive suggests a heightened focus on enforcing existing regulations related to the conduct of EU citizens residing in Ireland. This action underscores the balance between upholding the rights granted by EU membership and ensuring public safety.

Minister O’Callaghan also noted that the vast majority of Polish and Lithuanian nationals residing in Ireland respect Irish laws and contribute positively to society.

Increased Removals

The number of people removed from the State under the Free Movement Directive has been increasing. Last year, 56 individuals were removed, a significant rise from the 18 removals recorded the previous year. This figure included 23 people removed on a charter flight to Romania.

Frequently Asked Questions

What grounds are used for removing EU citizens?

Under the Free Movement Directive, the Minister for Justice may issue removal orders if an EU citizen represents a danger to public policy, public security, or public health, based on their personal conduct.

How many people were removed last year under this directive?

Last year, 56 people were removed from the State under the Free Movement Directive.

Was any cost information provided for the personnel accompanying the flight?

The Department of Justice did not reveal the cost associated with the garda personnel, medical staff, interpreters, and human rights observer who accompanied the 33 individuals on the flight.

As the legal framework allows for continued enforcement of removal orders, it is possible that similar actions may be taken in the future to address criminal behavior by EU citizens residing in Ireland. The frequency of these removals could be influenced by factors such as changes in crime rates and evolving interpretations of the Free Movement Directive.