Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 13 Oct 1998

Vol. 495 No. 1

Written Answers. - Military Neutrality.

Trevor Sargent

Question:

137 Mr. Sargent asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if his attention has been drawn to reports that a Galway based research facility (details supplied) has been partially equipped by the US Defence Forces and that this equipment is used to supply data to the US military authorities; his views on whether undertakings in the national territory in any way compromise the policy of military neutrality to which the Irish people are committed; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [19165/98]

Minister for Foreign Affairs (Mr. Andrews)

I understand that the facility in question has been in operation for 40 years, is attached to NUI Galway and has a well-established international reputation for excellence in the field of atmospheric research into pollution and global warming. These environmental problems affect the whole planet. The World Meteorological Organisation has publicly attested to the global importance of this Irish research centre.

I see no grounds for the suggestion in the Deputy's question that Irish military neutrality is being compromised by the work of this atmospheric research facility.