Military Aircraft Landings

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 20 June 2017

Tuesday, 20 June 2017

Ceisteanna (688)

Catherine Connolly

Ceist:

688. Deputy Catherine Connolly asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade if his attention was drawn to the planned arrival of a plane (details supplied) before it landed; the way in which assurances can be given that there were no weapons on board and that it was not involved in military operations; the details of the plane's activities here and in Irish airspace; the destination of the plane after leaving Ireland; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [27364/17]

Freagraí scríofa

Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade

Regarding the aircraft referred to by the Deputy, permission to land was sought in advance by the US Embassy from my Department. The US Embassy confirmed in writing that the purpose of the landing was refuelling, and that the aircraft was unarmed; carried no arms, ammunition or explosives; and was not engaged in intelligence-gathering. The Embassy also confirmed in writing that the flight in question did not form part of a military exercise or operation and that the aircraft’s destination was Germany.