Dublin Airport has confirmed that an EU sanctioned audit of security is underway and a number of major breaches have already been brought to its attention.
In a statement released this evening Dublin Airport said: "These issues were addressed with immediate effect and Dublin Airport is satisfied that the safety and security of passengers has not been compromised. Dublin Airport continues to operate normally."
The audit is being carried by the European Civil Aviation Conference (ECAC), an intergovernmental organisation founded 50 years ago to promote a safe, efficient and sustainable air transport system in Europe.
One of its functions is to carry out security audits into airport operations. It liaises closely with the International Civil Aviation Organisation and the Council of Europe and issues recommendations, resolutions and policy statements which are brought into effect by member states.
During the current audit at Dublin Airport, which began yesterday and will end at 2 p.m. on Thursday, it exposed a number of deficiencies in the airport's security.
It is understood that a fake bomb and knives were among the items smugggled into the airport by investigators.
The Minister for Transport Martin Cullen this evening said: "I have been advised that during this audit, breaches of Airport security were identified. On becoming aware of this, my Department immediately sought assurances from the Dublin Airport Authority that any security breaches identified were addressed with immediate effect.
"The Dublin Airport Authority has advised that such action has been taken. I have requested a full report on the matter from the Dublin Airport Authority and the relevant airline operators.
The minister added: "Senior officials from my Department have met this evening with senior management at the Dublin Airport Authority regarding the audit and have been advised of the measures taken. My officials will continue to be present at the Airport for the duration of the audit."
Responding to the news Fine Gael Transport Spokeswoman Olivia Mitchell TD, blamed the overwhelming pressure on security staff to deal with the massive number of passengers in the airport each year, while also taking the opportunity to criticise Aer Rianta for not prioritising a second terminal.
"This is a massive security breach at our main airport and is extremely disturbing. A breach of this nature could potentially have catastrophic results and will do nothing to inspire confidence among the travelling public.
"Overcrowding must undoubtedly be a factor in the failure to detect lethal weapons being carried through security," added Ms Mitchell.
"This is just one of the many consequences of the failure of the former Aer Rianta to plan for the timely expansion of Dublin Airport."