Vol. 424 No. 1
113 Mr. Callely asked the Minister for Tourism, Transport and Communications the moneys, if any, which are due to the Exchequer arising from military aircraft using our communication facilities; the countries from which such outstanding moneys are due; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
On 1 June 1989 my Department applied the Shanwick communications charge to military traffic. This charge is applied to oceanic flights in the North Atlantic Region using the communications service provided by Ballygireen Aeronautical Radio Station, Co. Clare. Military authorities involved resisted the charge on the grounds that military aircraft were state aircraft and thus exempt under international aviation law. Irish state or military aircraft are similarly exempt from charges of other national administrations. The charges proved to be uncollectable.
Based on advice provided by the Attorney-General, Department of Finandce sanction was sought and received for the cessation of military charges with effect from 1 May 1991 and the write-off of all amounts due on that date.
