Vol. 560 No. 1
313 Mr. J. Higgins asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if the regulations governing foreign military personnel were observed at all times by United States military personnel using Shannon Airport in 2002 and in 2003 to date. [1756/03]
Aircraft carrying US personnel travelling to and from stations around the world have been refuelling at Shannon airport over a period of decades. Last September, I ordered a review of arrangements to ensure that regulations governing foreign military personnel were being complied with. The US authorities have co-operated fully in this exercise.
In particular, civilian carriers are seeking permission from the Minister for Transport for the transit of the personal weapons of military personnel through Irish airports, in accordance with the terms of the Air Navigation (Carriage of Munitions of War, Weapons and Dangerous Goods) Order, 1973.
As regards the wearing of uniforms, the US authorities have been given express permission for their military personnel to wear uniforms in the transit areas of Irish airports. Further permission must be sought for them to wear uniforms outside these areas. I am satisfied that, in this regard, the requirements of section 317 of the Defence Act, 1954, are being complied with.
