Flanagan warns that Brexit must not impact on Anglo-Irish and EU judicial-security co-operation
JUSTICE Minister Charlie Flanagan has admitted he is concerned that the Brexit fall-out could impact on extradition and the European Arrest Warrant system in the UK.
Mr Flanagan issued a blunt warning that, irrespective of the form Brexit ultimately takes, Ireland and the UK must ensure that the closest possible security co-operation remains in place.
“I believe it is important that a strong bond of working together between the PSNI in Northern Ireland, outside of the EU, and the Garda Síochána here continues,” he said.
“I would be concerned to ensure, for example, that we continue to have a robust extradition process.
“I would hope that Britain would continue to sign in to the very important and necessary European Arrest Warrant [system].
“That we could ensure there is no delay in fighting crime on either side of the Border and, of course, east and west between Britain and Ireland, having regard to the continuation of the Common Travel Area and the freedom of movement for people.”
The UK has warned that in the event of a ‘no-deal Brexit’ there could be security implications.
Mr Flanagan added: “I met with my [UK] colleague the home secretary [Sajid Javid] earlier this week and I believe the urgency now is for the British Government and Parliament to finalise their ask on the Withdrawal Agreement. My concern is that it does appear to be unravelling.”