Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 21 July 2016
915. Deputy Michael McGrath asked the Taoiseach and Minister for Defence the distance from the Irish coastline the Irish Naval Service has jurisdiction to patrol; the functions regarding patrolling; if there is any difference in the powers the Naval Service has once it patrols beyond the territorial seas; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23883/16]
View answerAs the State’s principal sea-going agency, and in accordance with international and domestic law, the Naval Service, through its patrols, undertakes a variety of functions in the maritime domain in accordance with its role in contributing to maritime security. This encompasses the provision of support to other Government Departments and Agencies such as the Department of Transport, Tourism and Sport, An Garda Síochána, the Revenue Commissioners and the Sea-Fisheries Protection Authority. The Defence Forces will continue to provide a range of supports to these Bodies in accordance with its roles in aid the civil power and the civil authority and as set out in the applicable Memorandums of Understanding and Service Level Agreements.
The internal waters of the State extend from the land into maritime territory to a distance of 12 nautical miles. These boundaries extend into the contiguous zone of 24 nautical miles from the baseline which permits the coastal state to exercise control necessary to prevent infringement of its customs, fiscal, immigration or sanitary laws and regulations. Furthermore, the Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) extends 200 nautical miles from land where the coastal state exercises rights for the purpose of exploring and exploiting, conserving and managing the natural resources, and beyond, where applicable.
