Liam Aylward MEP has said the ratification of the Lisbon Treaty will ensure that the European Union will be able to fight international crime in a more structured manner.
Mr Aylward believes that the Lisbon Treaty will create a position known as an EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and this person will be able to present the policies of the European Union in a global context in a more coherent manner.
“Organised crime is international by nature and it requires a concerted and united international response if it is to be effectively tackled. Organised crime has evolved at a time of increasing globalisation and expanding international trade so the range of organised criminal activities has broadened and diversified,” he said.
A new EU programme was set up in September 2007 called the Maritime Analysis and Operations Centre – Narcotics, known by the acronym MAOC – N initiative.
Mr Aylward praised the programme, which is headquartered in Lisbon. He said it brings together the police, naval, intelligence, customs, and revenue services from all the countries based along the west coast of Europe.
“Some of the most high profile drugs seizures that have taken place in Ireland over the past two years have been as a direct result of this successful MAOC- N programme,” he pointed out.
