asked the Minister for Transport and Power if he will make a statement on the American H-bomber which recently landed in a disabled condition at Shannon Airport; what facilities were allowed to the American authorities in regard to the control of the plane and crew while at Shannon; whether any restrictions were placed on journalists and others concerning the photographing of the plane and interviewing the crew; and whether the Irish authorities satisfied themselves that the plane was on a training mission.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Landing of U.S. Military Aircraft.
39.
In accordance with international practice, no prior permission is required for the landing of aircraft in emergency, as was the case with the U.S. military aircraft which landed at Shannon on 14th September, 1960. The Airport Authorities cooperated in preventing the approach of unauthorised persons to the aircraft, until U.S. personnel were available. At the request of the captain of the aircraft, photographers and journalists were informed that photographs would not be permitted. No restrictions were placed on interviews with the crew.
In general, the facilities given were those which would be given in similar circumstances in relation to any type of aircraft.
The last part of the question is covered by an answer which the Minister for External Affairs is giving to another question tabled by the Deputy.
I am anxious that there should not be an undesirable precedent established. It was said that the U.S. Air Force officers flew into Shannon and took charge of the investigation behind locked doors. Was there any representative of the Irish Government, the Defence Forces, or the Garda permitted at that investigation?
I do not intend to say anything further in regard to the matter. The practice adopted was that which is normal in the circumstances.
Question No. 40.
Were we excluded by the American authorities——
Order!
——from taking part in this investigation?
Order!
Did the United States Air Force take over Rineanna?
Question No. 40.