andMr. Fox asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the total number of occasions on which protests were made to the British Government concerning Border incidents; and the number of occasions on which a reply was received since August, 1969.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Border Incidents.
25.
During the period in question there were 46 known ground incursions by British troops and 27 confirmed overlights. Representations were made to the British authorities in relation to them. Replies are awaited in respect of the most recent incursions.
Could the Minister say what kind of replies were received in respect of the earlier incursions?
In some cases there were regrets and in other cases there was not an acceptance as to responsibility. The replies varied.
In how many cases did the British Government accept that there had been crossings of the Border and expressed regret?
I have not got the precise details but there were a number of regrets and I would say there were a number of denials.
Would the Minister say if there was a protest made about the shelling of the house at Narrow Water, Dundalk?
I am sure there was. It has been done at every stage where an incursion of this kind occurred.
This is serious.
I know it is.
Surely the Minister must have some information regarding this?
I have not got details but I will inquire into it.