Justice Minister Frances Fitzgerald has confirmed Ireland is to seek Advance Passenger Information on flights into Ireland from outside the EU later this year.

The Tánaiste has met her European Union counterparts in Luxembourg to discusses counter-terrorism measures.

They discussed the European response to terrorism following the recent attacks in Manchester and London.

The ministers say enhancing information-sharing across Europe, and making the best use of available EU and Interpol resources, remains a key priority.

Ms Fitzgerald said: "Like many other member states, we are working hard to ensure best use is made of the existing resources available to us - but also to upgrade and accelerate our connectivity to every resource that can help keep us safe.

"I have committed substantial resources to this."

Irish immigration authorities will begin to process Advance Passenger Information on flights into the State from outside the EU later this year.

It means airlines will have to provide data on passengers in advance of flights arriving in Ireland, and give the data to Irish authorities after a flight's check-in.

Dublin Airport | File photo

This initiative was signed into law by former Justice Minister Alan Shatter in 2011.

The Department of Justice says preparations are also under way to implement the EU Directive on Passenger Name Records (PNR).

Countering radicalisation has been a strong focus of Minister’s efforts over a number of years now and it will remain at the top of the agenda.

Minister Fitzgerald added: "Combating online violent radicalisation and the use of the internet by terrorist groups remains another priority area and the EU Internet Forum to counter violent radicalisation has managed a sustained interaction with a number of the global IT and social media companies.

"Countering radicalisation will involve a whole of community approach nationally and locally. It requires a criminal justice approach, the strongest legislation and intelligence sharing and a speedy identification of risk factors.

"The Government is committed to providing all necessary resources to An Garda Síochána to deal with the threats they face, be it terrorism or organised crime", she added.