Andrews reiterates calls for extradition treaty to be established

Fianna Fáil MEP for Dublin, Barry Andrews, has today welcomed the arrest of Kinahan organised crime group member Sean McGovern.

The arrest, which took place in Dubai, is on foot of a European Arrest Warrant issued by the High Court.

“The news of this arrest is very welcome,” Andrews said.

“I want to pay tribute to the hard work and dedication of the many law enforcement agencies that made this happen, particularly An Garda Síochana.

“I hope this arrest is the beginning of the end to one of the most dangerous and volatile crime organisations that have walked the streets of Dublin.

“I also welcome Minister McEntee’s statement that the government has agreed to open negotiations with the UAE on extradition treaties.

“This is something that I called for last year.”

It is widely expected that Sean McGovern will challenge his extradition to Ireland and, in the absence of a treaty between Ireland and UAE, the State will be relying on a mutual legal assistance agreement.

Andrews continued: “I will also be seeking a meeting with my colleague, Michael McGrath, Commissioner-designate for Justice, to discuss this and to request the EU follow the lead of Belgium, Netherlands and Denmark in agreeing to an extradition treaty with UAE.

“The rule of law and effective enforcement are paramount to protecting our democracy.

“We cannot afford to let serious criminals slip through the net because we do not have the requisite treaties in place.

“We now know Dubai to be a safe-haven for criminals and, unfortunately, once the Kinahan crime group has been brought to justice, there will be more to take their place.

“Without an extradition treaty in place, Dubai will continue to be a hideout for criminals.” concluded Andrews.