Travel firms face higher fines for bringing people to Ireland without proper documentation

Airlines and ferry operators will be liable for higher fines from Monday if they allow someone to enter the State without proper documentation.

The Minister for Justice has signed an order to increase the maximum fines to €5,000 – which is up from €3,000.

The fines had not been amended since the Immigration Act commenced in 2003.

Minister for Justice Helen McEntee said it would bring Ireland into line with counterparts across the EU.

She also pointed to other steps being taken “to deliver a fair, but firm immigration system”, including enhanced measures targeting those who destroy documents in flight in order to claim asylum.

“Carriers such as airlines and ferry companies play an essential role in protecting and upholding our borders, and they are obligated to ensure their passengers have the necessary valid passports, ID cards and visas to travel to Ireland,” Ms McEntee said.

“My department is working closely with them to support them in these obligations, including through the provision of training. However, where the rules are not followed increased fines will now apply”.