US flight screening Invasion of privacy unacceptable

American concern over terrorism is understandable in the aftermath of September 11.

About 3,000 people were killed in the attack on the World Trade Center, the second anniversary of which was marked yesterday. However, despite the devastating impact of this atrocity, invading the privacy of citizens of other countries is simply not acceptable.

US authorities have demanded that Aer Lingus provide them with details of all passengers flying to America from the end of this month, the inference being that they would be denied landing rights in the event of failing to comply.