Jim O'Callaghan

Removal orders were enforced yesterday afternoon against 23 men, aged between 22 and 49 years, all of whom had received custodial sentences for a range of offences, the government said.

Re-entry bans of up to 10 years have been applied to prevent their return to Ireland.

Having removed 22 individuals earlier this year on commercial airlines, the total number of EU citizens removed from Ireland this year in accordance with the Free Movement Directive now stands at 45.

Jim O’Callaghan, the minister for justice, home affairs and migration, said: “The right to freedom of movement is among the most fundamental rights and freedoms provided to European citizens that we strive to protect.

“Securing this right for our citizens is one of the most important achievements of the European Union, offering people the opportunity to work, study and live in 31 European countries, and assuring their protections to do so.

“Restricting the right to freedom of movement is not a measure I take lightly, but there must be consequences if a person’s behaviour means they should no longer be entitled to access this privilege.

“Action will be taken if our laws are not respected and upheld and this includes enforcing removal orders and sending people home.

He added: “It is important to acknowledge that the vast majority of the Romanian community are law-abiding and hardworking people who make a positive contribution to Irish society.

“I want to thank the members of An Garda Síochána and my officials for their work in conducting today’s operation.”