Taoiseach to seek EU solidarity over terror

THE Taoiseach is to press for a definite commitment from EU member states to come to the assistance of each other in the event of terrorist attacks.

The renewed emphasis on the solidarity clause in the draft Constitution for Europe is part of a package of proposals put down by Ireland's EU Presidency in response to the Madrid bombings.

Minister for Justice Michael McDowell will chair an emergency meeting of EU interior ministers in Brussels on Friday to discuss how the EU should respond to the terrorist attacks. The emergency meeting was called for by Germany and backed by France.

The proposals will also be discussed by EU foreign ministers next Monday before a package of measures is put to the European Council summit of EU leaders on March 25 and 26.

Yesterday the Taoiseach denied that Ireland is a prime target for a terrorist attack.

"I don't think we should be talking that up," he said. "We will take all the security protections that we need to take."

Last night, Mr Ahern said that as President of the European Council, he will seek the agreement of the Heads of State and Government to a political commitment to assume obligations contained in the solidarity clause.

"This will reinforce the union's efforts to combat terrorism. It provides for member states to come to the assistance of each other in response to new threats, arising from terrorist and non-state entities, directed against civilian populations and democratic institutions in the EU," he said in a statement.

Following the Madrid bombings, the Spanish authorities regard the Constitution for Europe as crucial to provide a framework for the protection of citizens.

Aside from the commitment to solidarity, measures being proposed by Ireland include a revised action plan on terrorism, the appointment of an EU security coordinator to streamline the fight against terrorism and a more effective clampdown on terrorist assets and the movement of terrorist finances.

On top of that, improved intelligence co-operation between police and security services and increased co-ordination between the EU and the United Nations are also on the cards.

"We will seek agreement on a programme for enhancing relations with Third Countries to ensure effective and practical co-operation and joint activities in combating terrorism at a global level," said Mr Ahern.

Also yesterday, anti-war campaigners vowed to protest against the visit of US President George W Bush to this country in June, whether his meeting with Mr Ahern takes place in Croke Park or Kerry.

Backed by Labour, the Green Party, Sinn Féin and a number of peace organisations, tens of thousands of protesters are expected to gather to mark their opposition to President Bush's policies.