asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if, arising out of possible causes of the sinking of the Clogherhead fishing trawler on 18 April 1982 he will institute procedures for consultation with other Governments, to ensure that there is better information available on the location of foreign naval vessels in the areas around the Irish coast; if he will ensure that his Department supply such information to the Departments of Defence and Fisheries and Forestry; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Written Answers. - Location of Foreign Naval Vessels.
426.
Following on the sinking of the fishing trawler Sharelga on 18 April 1982, an investigation was instituted as to the possible causes. While these inquiries were still in progress, the British Government on 1 May 1982 informed the Government that one of their submarines had been involved in the incident and would accept full responsibility and pay all fair and reasonable claims arising out of the incident.
My Department are currently examining ways of ensuring that such incidents do not occur in future. Any information will, as a matter of course, be supplied to the relevant Departments.