Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 8 October 2020
155. Deputy Darren O'Rourke asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the status of the latest discussions that have taken place with the UK Government on the ongoing dispute over the ownership of Lough Foyle; the discussions that have taken place recently in this regard in terms of Brexit; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29302/20]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe UK Government assertion of jurisdiction over the whole of Lough Foyle has never been accepted by Ireland and this position remains unchanged.
Following discussions in 2011 between the then Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade and the British Foreign Secretary, the British and Irish Governments agreed to seek to resolve jurisdictional issues relating to both Lough Foyle and Carlingford Lough.
Since that time a series of meetings and contacts have taken place at official level between the Foreign and Commonwealth Office and the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade.
This engagement has been ongoing and the Department is also continuing to consult with other relevant Departments on specific issues and concerns in relation to licensing of aquaculture in Lough Foyle.
The issues involved in these discussions are complex and involve a range of different actors, including the Crown Estates on the UK side, but the Government is satisfied that all sides are committed to reaching a positive resolution as soon as possible.
