Military Aircraft

Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 9 November 2023

Thursday, 9 November 2023

Questions (170)

Catherine Connolly

Question:

170. Deputy Catherine Connolly asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs if a British RAF surveillance aircraft (details supplied) was authorised to fly along the west coasts of Donegal and Mayo within Irish territorial waters on 3 November; if so, when and why approval was given for this flight, given that it is likely that this aircraft was on an intelligence gathering mission, in contravention of Irish Government prohibition on such flights by foreign military aircraft; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [49127/23]

Written answers

Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs

Under the terms of the Air Navigation (Foreign Military Aircraft) Order, 1952, all foreign military aircraft wishing to overfly, or land in, the State require diplomatic clearance from the Minister for Foreign Affairs. Diplomatic clearance is subject to strict conditions, with full respect for Ireland’s policy of military neutrality.

The provision of diplomatic clearance to land in, or overfly, the State is subject to strict conditions, namely, that the aircraft is unarmed; that it carries no arms, ammunition or explosives; that it does not engage in intelligence gathering; and that the flight in question does not form part of a military exercise or operation.

With respect to the aircraft in question, I am satisfied that the correct diplomatic clearance procedures for foreign military overflights were followed in full.