16/04/2009
Terrorists Could Exploit EU Movement, Says MEP
Ulster Unionist MEP Jim Nicholson has described the arrest and continued detention of a Co Louth man in the Lithuanian capital Vilnius (pictured) as a "worrying development".
It is understood the Dundalk native was arrested for attempting to buy arms and explosives for the Real IRA. Mr Nicholson said: "With the recent murders and the provocative demonstrations of dissident republican strength on the streets of Northern Ireland this latest development is worrying.
"However, I would like to congratulate the security services in Lithuania for the efforts that they have made."
Mr Nicholson stressed that the free movement of people and goods in the European Union obviously has "many economic and social benefits".
However, he highlighted some potential security problems, which the MEP said poses an opportunity for criminal elements.
Mr Nicholson said this is particularly true in certain parts of Eastern Europe, where illegal arms dealing is a serious problem.
"I will continue to work closely and build relations with my Eastern European counterparts in the European Parliament to help ensure that all the necessary co-operation is taking place," he said.
"Information sharing between the PSNI and the Gardai has in the past highlighted the benefits of close working relations between security services in the EU and with the freedom of movement and goods our security relationships with all member states is crucial," added Mr Nicholson.
(PR/BMcC)
It is understood the Dundalk native was arrested for attempting to buy arms and explosives for the Real IRA. Mr Nicholson said: "With the recent murders and the provocative demonstrations of dissident republican strength on the streets of Northern Ireland this latest development is worrying.
"However, I would like to congratulate the security services in Lithuania for the efforts that they have made."
Mr Nicholson stressed that the free movement of people and goods in the European Union obviously has "many economic and social benefits".
However, he highlighted some potential security problems, which the MEP said poses an opportunity for criminal elements.
Mr Nicholson said this is particularly true in certain parts of Eastern Europe, where illegal arms dealing is a serious problem.
"I will continue to work closely and build relations with my Eastern European counterparts in the European Parliament to help ensure that all the necessary co-operation is taking place," he said.
"Information sharing between the PSNI and the Gardai has in the past highlighted the benefits of close working relations between security services in the EU and with the freedom of movement and goods our security relationships with all member states is crucial," added Mr Nicholson.
(PR/BMcC)
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