asked the Minister for Defence how long the flying restrictions in the vicinity of the Curragh, County Kildare will remain in operation; and if he will arrange to lift them for the Irish Sweeps Derby day and other important race-days.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Curragh Flying Restrictions.
37.
The prohibition of flights by civil aircraft in the airspace involved will remain in force for as long as the security situation so requires. A specific request for exemption from the prohibition for a particular occasion will be considered on the merits at the appropriate time.
Would the Minister agree that, in view of the permanent nature of the prison at the Curragh Camp and the thousands of pounds being spent on it, this embargo, too, will be of a permanent nature?
No. The other point is that if somebody, such as a jockey, wishes to fly to the Curragh to attend a race meeting, there is no reason why an application could not be made to the Department of Transport and Power in the first instance and that they would notify my Department. I assure the Deputy that any such request would be given every consideration.
To clarify a point— since the Minister for Justice, when outlining the prisons that are being repaired, did not refer to the one at the Curragh, can the Minister for Defence say whether that prison is his responsibility or whether it is the responsibility of the Minister for Justice?
That is a separate question but if the Deputy puts it down, we shall answer it.