Dáil Éireann debate -
Wednesday, 19 Mar 1997

Vol. 476 No. 5

Written Answers - Irish Maritime Baseline.

Pat the Cope Gallagher

Question:

59 Mr. Gallagher (Donegal South-West) asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs if his attention has been drawn to controversy in fishery circles regarding the Irish maritime baseline; if he will define the baseline; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7667/97]

Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs (Mr. Spring)

I am not aware that there is a controversy in fishery circles regarding the Irish maritime baseline.

Section 4 of the Maritime Jurisdiction Act, 1959 governs Irish baselines and provides that the Government may by order prescribe straight baselines where this is appropriate. Under the Maritime Jurisdiction Act, 1959 (Straight Baselines) Order, 1959 straight baselines were drawn around our coastline from Malin Head to Carnsore Point using internationally recognised base points. The order includes the co-ordinates of the base points used to draw the straight baselines. A map showing the straight baselines is attached to the Order which is published in Statutory Instrument No. 173 of 1959.