The Foreign Affairs Minister says Ireland is not a hub for terrorists travelling to fight in Syria or Iraq.

Charlie Flanagan has also told the Dáil reports of terrorist training camps here are not correct.

Last year an investigation by CNN put Ireland in second place in Europe for the number of fighters going to the Middle East per head of population.

Minister Flanagan insists Ireland is not a soft target for terrorists to use:

The comments come after it was announced earlier this week that new anti-terrorism legislation will be on our statute books within weeks.

The Criminal Justice (Terrorist Offences) (Amendment) Bill introduces three new offences: public provocation to commit a terrorist offence, recruitment for terrorism and training for terrorism.

Those found guilty could face up to 10 years in prison.

The EU Foreign Affairs council met in Brussels on Monday to develop a counter terrorism strategy.

Minister Charlie Flanagan says there is an opportunity to increase the levels of coordination and exchange of intelligence across the EU.

After the meeting, Mr Flanagan said he is bringing in new laws here.