1,000 people prevented from entering EU due to new checks

New European Union border checks have successfully stopped approximately 1,000 individuals considered a threat to the bloc from entering the Schengen Area, according to Ireland's Justice Minister Jim O'Callaghan.

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There are approximately 1,000 people who have been identified as being a danger to the European Union, who have been apprehended and stopped as a result of the entry-exit system.

The Entry/Exit System (EES), which became fully operational in April, requires travelers from non-EU countries, including the UK, to have their fingerprints and photographs taken upon entry. This system aims to bolster security across the 29 European countries that make up the Schengen Area.

Minister O'Callaghan stated that he was informed by EU Internal Affairs and Migration Commissioner Magnus Brunner that the EES has processed around 110 million people since its inception. "There are approximately 1,000 people who have been identified as being a danger to the European Union, who have been apprehended and stopped as a result of the entry-exit system," O'Callaghan told reporters. He believes the system is effective in protecting EU security.

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So, I think it is effective in terms of protecting European Union security.

Despite its security benefits, the EES has faced criticism for contributing to substantial delays at major airports as the summer travel season intensifies. The Schengen Area includes most EU member states, along with non-EU countries like Norway and Switzerland. Ireland maintains an opt-out to preserve its Common Travel Area with the UK.

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I spoke to Commissioner Brunner in respect of this, [he said] that there are approximately 1,000 people who have been identified as being a danger to the European Union, who have been apprehended and stopped as a result of the entry-exit system.