Micheál Martin (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail)

Otherwise, it would be in breach of its duties under the Treaty of the European Community. Once Irish Ferries satisfies the Minister that its proposed re-flagging in Cyprus is on foot of its right of establishment, the State cannot prevent the re-flagging. That is the stark reality.

Pending that re-flagging approval, Irish employment laws will continue to be enforced and at all times Irish safety laws will continue to apply to all vessels using Irish ports——

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