Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 27 January 2015
618. Deputy Clare Daly asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport further to Parliamentary Question No. 617 of 20 January 2015 if he will clarify the statement on whether a foreign state is entitled to transport a large number of troops on their way to war through a neutral state; and whether or not those troops are carrying arms. [3948/15]
Amharc ar fhreagraAs I have outlined previously, the permits granted by my Department under the Air Navigation (Carriage of Munitions of War, Weapons and Dangerous Goods) Order, 1973, as amended, are for the carriage of munitions on civil aircraft in Irish airspace. I have no function as regards the passengers on board such civil aircraft.
I am advised by the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade that Ireland’s policy of military neutrality is characterised by non-participation in military alliances. Arrangements for the over-flight and landing of US military aircraft at Shannon Airport have been in place continuously under successive Governments for over fifty years. These arrangements, and those relating to the transit of US military personnel, are fully consistent with Ireland’s policies and legal requirements, including our traditional policy of military neutrality.
