asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce if, in view of the Flags and Emblems Bill at present before the Parliament of the six northeastern counties, and the fact that ships of the Republic now enter Belfast Lough on legitimate commercial business, he will ensure that the national flag displayed on these vessels will be properly respected and protected.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Display of National Flag.
The Merchant Shipping Act, 1947, provides that the national flag shall be hoisted on an Irish ship on entering or leaving a port outside the State.
I have no reason to assume that the flag when used as the proper national colours of our merchant ships under the Merchant Shipping Acts and flown in accordance with international law, will not be respected in Belfast as well as in all other ports.