Vol. 462 No. 7
65 Mr. D. Ahern asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs if his attention has been drawn to the dangers of low flying helicopters in and around the North Louth/South Armagh area; if he will make representation in this regard; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5409/96]
I am aware of the dangers of low-flying helicopters in Border areas. Incidents relating to helicopters are raised on an ongoing basis through the Anglo-Irish Secretariat. In recent months we have raised particular incidents in the south Armagh area. I have also availed of the meetings of the Intergovernmental Conference to register our concern at such incidents.
I want to assure the Deputy that all unauthorised crossings of the Border, including accidental or inadvertent crossings, whether in the air or at surface level, are viewed by the Government as a very serious matter. I am also fully aware of the concerns of residents in Border areas in this regard.
All unauthorised overflights of the State are immediately raised through the Anglo-Irish Secretariat in Belfast. We will continue to impress upon the British authorities the need to take the necessary steps to avoid such incidents in the future.
