I move:
That Dáil Éireann approves of the terms of the Agreement for Joint Financing of North Atlantic Ocean Stations done at Geneva on the 15th day of November, 1974.
Ireland has been associated with the operation of ocean weather stations in the North Atlantic since 1954. At that time we were one of 18 countries which were parties to an agreement designed to establish the stations to monitor and exchange meteorological information. This agreement was administered by the International Civil Aviation Organisation and is due to terminate on 30th June, 1975. It is now proposed to replace the 1954 agreement and the principal object of the new agreement is to ensure the continuation of the provisions of the old agreement enabling the contracting parties to finance or to provide or operate vessels at ocean weather stations in the North Atlantic. At formal discussions between the interested States it has been agreed that on this occasion it would be more appropriate that the World Meteorological Organisation should sponsor the new agreement and that organisation has agreed.
The agreement involves a charge on public funds and consequently Dáil approval of its terms is necessary in accordance with Article 29.5.2 of the Constitution before it may become binding on the State. Ireland's contribution for the year 1974 towards the running costs of the service under the existing agreement has been calculated at £44,000. The number of States participating in the new agreement is expected to increase from 18 to 22 and as a result Ireland's contribution in the long run should be smaller than under the old agreement.
I feel sure that the importance of maintaining these weather stations in the North Atlantic will be realised and supported by the House. It is an exercise in international cooperation which benefits contracting States, particularly in western Europe. The constant flow of information from these stations—which make weather observations every hour of the day—is a very important factor in the preparation of weather forecasts for Ireland, including the forecasts and gale warnings specially prepared for our fishermen. In addition, the ocean weather stations make observations of meteorological elements at upper levels, including wind up to and above 50,000 feet, four times each day. This information on high level winds is of considerable economic benefit to airlines, including Aer Lingus, on the North Atlantic routes.
Since the late 1960s meteorological information from the Atlantic Ocean is also being received in increasing volume by the Meteorological Service from weather satellites. While this information is contributing to the improved standard of forecasting provided by the Meteorological Service, it is the opinion of the World Meteorological Organisation that information from satellites is unlikely to be adequate to make the ocean weather stations unnecessary for a considerable number of years to come.
I think you will agree that, considering the advantages to be gained, Ireland should participate fully in this international agreement.
I commend the motion to the House.
