Dáil Éireann díospóireacht -
Thursday, 11 Jun 1992

Vol. 421 No. 2

Written Answers. - Inspection of Foreign Naval Vessels.

Ivor Callely

Ceist:

107 Mr. Callely asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if he has satisfied himself with existing arrangements that allow foreign naval vessels visit Irish ports; if he will outline the inspections, if any, which are carried out to ensure such vessels are not carrying nuclear weapons; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

Minister for Foreign Affairs (Mr. Andrews)

The policy of successive Irish Governments has been to grant permission for visits to Irish ports by foreign naval vessels provided that such visits do not form part of a naval exercise and that the vessels are not carrying nuclear weapons.

My Department ensures that countries which seek permission for visits by their naval vessels to Irish ports are aware of these and any other conditions laid down. Before granting such permission, my Department carried out consultations with the appropriate authorities to ensure that the conditions laid down are upheld. The Government are confident that the existing arrangements for this purpose are adequate.