asked the Taoiseach if he is aware of a statement dated 27th and 28th January, 1961, issued by a certain organisation that members of the British Crown Forces stationed in the Six Counties occasionally cross the Border into the State to carry out spying expeditions in Counties Louth, Cavan, Monaghan and Donegal and to search houses etc. without any interference from the Gardaí or military authorities; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Border Activities of British Crown Forces.
8.
I have seen the statements in question which I can only describe as mischievous misrepresentations.
It is, of course, well known that members of police and military forces in the Six Counties make visits across the Border, when not on duty, for the purposes of shopping, recreation and the like and are free to do so. National policy is directed towards the abolition of the Border, not its intensification, and it is not intended to take any action which might operate to discourage residents of these counties making visits of this character.
Is the Taoiseach satisfied that espionage is not being carried out?
It is nonsensical to speak as if this country was a beleaguered fortress. Five hundred thousand people cross the Border every week.