Shannon gets pre-clearance immigration deal with US

A deal has been agreed to allow air passengers travelling from Shannon to the US to pass through all the necessary security inspections in this country.

Until now, immigration clearance has only been given on arrival in America.

The final touches were agreed between the Minister for Transport Noel Dempsey and the US Secretary for Homeland Security Janet Napolitano today.

When the legislation is enacted, Ireland will be the first country in Europe granted a pre-clearance deal from the US.