Statement by Minister for Transport, Tourism & Sport Leo Varadkar on Dublin Airport

May 15, 2012 flight2000it

“The European Commission recently conducted an audit of Dublin Airport’s compliance with EU aviation security rules. The Commission undertakes these audits at all airports in the EU periodically, in line with EU aviation security legislation, to assess compliance with the EU common aviation security rules. The Commission found two deficiencies during the audit at Dublin and, as a result, is imposing some additional security procedures on aircraft departing from Dublin and arriving into other EU airports.

“The first matter has been resolved. The other is technical in nature and does not affect passenger screening or baggage handling at the airport. Dublin Airport will adopt back-up procedures to address this second matter in the short term, while a longer term solution is implemented, and the security of the airport is maintained.

“These additional procedures are not expected to have any significant impact on passengers at Dublin airport unless they are transferring through another EU airport en route to their final destination, in which case they will be required to undergo screening again. This does not impact on other airports in the State.

“I take these findings by the EU Commission very seriously and have taken steps to ensure that any deficiencies are rectified swiftly. I have met with officials from both my own Department and from the DAA, and I visited the airport on Monday. Immediate steps have now been taken.

“I cannot provide further detailed information on the audit findings, or respond further publicly on security grounds. However, I can assure that every effort is being made to enhance the measures in place to ensure they fully meet all EU requirements. I have also asked that the National Civil Aviation Security Committee, which is chaired by my Department and includes representatives of the different agencies and companies involved in aviation security, shall be convened and fully briefed on developments this week.

“I expect a full rectification plan to be submitted to the EU authorities in the near future and will also ensure that, if necessary, additional enforcement measures are put in place so that deficiencies are avoided and that there is sustainable compliance with aviation security requirements. The DAA, the Department and I will look for full support from suppliers and others operating at the airport in ensuring that standards are met so that these additional procedures which have been imposed can be lifted as soon as possible.”

Source: Irish Department of Transport, Tourism & Sport