Foreign police forces asked for Irish assistance in more than 300 criminal investigations, official figures revealed today.
The Department of Justice said the requests were linked to murder, rape, sexual assault, drug trafficking, money laundering and fraud - with the UK, Spain, Germany and the Netherlands making the most approaches.
UK officials made 97 requests, with most linked to fraud, road offences and theft, and six linked to terrorism.
Irish authorities approached counterparts overseas for information and support in 68 cases.
Minister for Justice Dermot Ahern said it showed the country’s commitment to fighting international crime.
“These figures show the extent to which Ireland is providing and seeking assistance in relation to the international fight against crime,” he said.
“Ireland is committed to assisting the law enforcement and judicial authorities of other states and we will do everything within our power to provide assistance where it is sought.”
The department, which acts as the Central Authority for Mutual Assistance in Criminal Matters, received 304 requests for legal assistance from overseas - up 6 per cent from 2008 - and sought assistance in 68 cases - up 45 per cent.
Garda requests for assistance included taking evidence, carrying out searches and interviewing witnesses.
In relation to crimes committed at home or linked to Irish-based gangsters, authorities sought information over murder, rape, sexual assault, drug trafficking and fraud. Most requests were made to the UK, the US and the Netherlands.
Most Irish requests were linked to murders, fraud and theft, with two linked to terrorism.
PA