asked the Minister for Justice if the Garda Síochána have carried out any investigation following the reports (details supplied) that Mutton Island, County Clare, has been purchased as a submarine-spotting base by the CIA; and, if so, if he will give details.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Purchase of County Clare Island.
77.
I have been informed by the Commissioner of the Garda Síochána that the gardaí have no evidence or information that would lead them to think that any action on their part is called for.
If the Deputy—or, for that matter, anybody else—has such evidence or information, the gardaí will be glad to receive it.
Arising out of the Minister's reply——
The scourge of the Maoists, the hammer of the CIA, takes his stand.
Is the Minister satisfied with the result of the investigations carried out by the Gardaí into the bona fides of the holding company in America in relation to the sale of this island to people who are unknown at the moment? Would the transaction which has taken place be injurious to the welfare or the security of the State?
It is not correct to say that a sale was made without the knowledge of the State, because the Land Commission had to be approached for consent to the sale. I am satisfied, and the Commissioner of the Garda Síochána is satisfied that there is no evidence or information which would lead them to take any action.
In view of our experience in the past, is it not fair to suggest that a more detailed investigation should be made for the protection of the State generally?
The Deputy will appreciate that I cannot give publicly details of any investigation carried out by the garadí in any area. He will have to be satisfied with the knowledge that the gardaí are themselves satisfied.
Is it true that the KGB also applied for this island?
It is called Mutton Island, and I do not know whether or not that has anything to do with it.