International Relations

Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 3 May 2023

Wednesday, 3 May 2023

Questions (28)

Catherine Connolly

Question:

28. Deputy Catherine Connolly asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs the reason for the presence of the NATO vessel (details supplied) in Bantry Bay from 11 to 13 April 2023; the details of any engagement he or his Department had with NATO representatives with regard to the presence of the ship in Bantry Bay, and any permissions granted by his Department in this regard; if the ship was carrying out military exercises in Bantry Bay; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [20586/23]

Written answers

Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs

Permission was granted for a French naval vessel to berth in Bantry Bay due to poor weather conditions. The Department of Foreign Affairs was in contact with the French Embassy in relation to this vessel and relevant stakeholders were kept informed and updated.

Foreign naval vessels are only granted permission to visit Irish ports on condition that they meet the necessary policy stipulations. In particular, these require that naval vessels visiting Irish ports do not carry nuclear weapons and do not engage in military exercises.