I can assure the Deputy that implementing effective border security arrangements is a central priority for me. The Programme for Government commits to developing a border security strategy to deliver stronger border security, ensuring technology supports border screening and to reviewing the potential of extending pre-clearance mechanisms, such as electronic travel authorisation, for travel from designated third countries. This work is underway.
I can advise the Deputy that the Entry/Exit System (EES) and the European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS) are Schengen measures which Ireland does not participate in. These are information systems designed to support Schengen border operational measures for Schengen Member States.
The EES, which is due to go live in October 2025, will electronically register the time and place of entry and exit of third country nationals for the Schengen area, and calculate the duration of their authorised stay. It is a digital solution which will replace passport stamps. The system will not apply to Irish nationals.
As Schengen Member States implement border controls on behalf of each other they require shared operational systems, such as the ETIAs and EES. As a non-Schengen member Ireland does not require the operational capacity to grant access to the Schengen zone and therefore is not party to these measures. Operating either system would also conflict with the functioning of the Common Travel Area.
Changing migration trends are kept under continual review by my Department. Ireland will continue to operate its own visa and border systems following the introduction of the EES and the ETIAS. Any variation in migration trends following the introduction of these measures will see my Department adapting its response accordingly.
