A new gate check programme could see airlines escape fines if they put in place an audited higher standard of document checking along with dedicated security procedures at embarkation. Photograph: Alan BetsonAirlines could face higher fines and be subjected to tougher legal obligations to check the documents of passengers flying into Ireland under proposed new immigration reforms.
Secretary general in the Department of Integration Kevin McCarthy is also due to appear before the PAC on Thursday morning, and he will tell TDs there has recently been a “further significant upward trajectory” in international protection arrivals.Developer Johnny Ronan’s prime property portfolio seeking €150m
Regarding airline measures, a review group is examining the level and structure of fines imposed on carriers, and is looking at a straight fine increase and the introduction of increased penalties for repeat offences. The group is also considering legislative amendments which would place enhanced responsibility on airlines to conduct appropriate checks on boarding passengers, making it an offence for them not to carry out the checks.
It comes amid a surge in recent months in asylum seekers being charged with arriving into the country without passports, as the Government seeks to present a tougher image on immigration. Last year, 3,285 people arrived at airports without valid travel documents, almost all of whom applied for asylum.
“Now I fully accept that that’s the Ukrainian side of the challenge and there is of course a very significant increase that we see in international protection numbers,” he said.
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