Vol. 493 No. 4
27 Ms McManus asked the Minister for the Marine and Natural Resources the total number of phosphorous bombs washed up on the Irish coastline since the beginning of June 1998; the steps, if any, taken to trace the origin of the devices; the representations, if any, made to the British authorities on the issue; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16072/98]
A total of 28 phosphorous devices were washed up on the east coast between 3 and 8 June at locations in counties Louth, Meath, Dublin and Wicklow.
In my earlier reply today to a priority question from Deputy Bell concerning these incidents, I have given details of locations, numbers of devices recorded and dates of the various occurrences. I have also outlined in my reply the steps which are being taken to trace the origin of the devices and my own contact and that of my Department officials with the UK authorities. The UK side is investigating, as a matter of urgency, the cause of these incidents so that further strategies can be considered for managing Beaufort's Dyke dumpsite from where the devices apparently originated.
I wish to acknowledge the level of co-operation from the UK side and efforts, to date, to address my concerns.
