Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 20 February 2024
152. Deputy Matt Carthy asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Defence if he will report on the recent monitoring by the Naval Service of a Russian oil tanker of the west coast of Ireland; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7901/24]
View answerThe Defence Forces routinely monitor foreign vessels with both Naval Service assets and Air Corps maritime patrol aircraft, as well as remote monitoring on a 24/7 basis from the Naval Operations Command Centre in Haulbowline. It should be noted that foreign vessels transiting Irish waters must do so in compliance with international law and may be subject to sighting and observation by the Naval Service and Air Corps without their innocent passage being infringed.
The conduct of surveillance activities by the Defence Forces is an operational matter, details of which are not disclosed for security reasons. The Military authorities provide regular assessments, reports and briefings to me as Minister for Defence and to officials of my Department as appropriate. These assessments, by their nature, are confidential.
