The Irish Naturalisation and Immigration Service (INIS) has started a six-month trial of automated self-service border control gates at Dublin Airport’s Terminal 1.
This is the first time that so-called ‘e-gates’ have been used in Ireland for immigration purposes. During the trial period, adult holders of Irish, EU, EEA or Swiss passports will have the picture on their passport verified electronically – without having to present themselves to an immigration officer.
In time it’s hope that e-gates will speed up the entry clearance process for all tourists and travellers.
They are also expected to help strengthen border security as the technology allows for the early interception of false documents.
Welcoming the initiative, Justice Minister Shatter said: “Border control arrangements at Dublin Airport are currently undergoing major change.
“Civilian immigration officers are replacing Gardaí with the aim of freeing up Garda resources for other policing duties, immigration control processes are being reviewed and leading-edge border technology such as automated gates is being tested.
He added that “many major European airports are adopting a similar trend towards the deployment of automated gates for immigration control functions to enhance passengers’ experience on arrival at airports while also strengthening border security.
“The trial period will test the suitability of e-gates for use at Dublin airport with a view to providing a more secure and efficient means for clearing passengers through immigration control.”
The e-gates are being operated under the supervision of INIS immigration officers deployed at the airport as part of the ‘civilianisation programme’ to transfer certain immigration control functions from An Garda Síochána.
The trial is being run in co-operation with the Dublin Airport Authority (DAA) and is supported by automated border gate technology provided by two separate border management solutions companies, Sita and Accenture.
