Noel Treacy (Galway East, Fianna Fail)

I refer the Deputy to the statement of the Minister for Foreign Affairs in the Dáil on 13 June, when he gave the House a detailed account of the matter to which the Deputy's question refers. Immediately after the incident in question was reported to the Department of Foreign Affairs by the US Embassy, the Minister for Foreign Affairs summoned the US ambassador to Iveagh House, where they met for the best part of an hour. He outlined our grave concerns. The ambassador confirmed the sequence of events and made clear that the failure to seek consent arose from an administrative error. He conveyed his deep regret for the breach of procedures and undertook urgently to advise his authorities of our views. In confirming the US authorities' determination that the use of Irish airspace and airports by the US be completely transparent and in conformity with Irish law and the wishes of the Government, he also confirmed his willingness to review the situation immediately with a view to ensuring there is no recurrence. The Minister informed the ambassador that, notwithstanding the fact this incident had no connection with allegations of extraordinary rendition, it was unacceptable that it should happen.

The following morning, the Minister briefed the Government meeting on these developments. Following the subsequent discussion, it was decided to make clear the Government's grave concern and to ask for a full written report from the US embassy. In addition, to ensure that appropriate steps are taken to prevent any recurrence of this incident, we are engaging in further discussion with the US authorities.

Officials from the Department of Foreign Affairs have met officials from the US embassy, most recently on 20 June, and have been in subsequent contact by telephone. The embassy is preparing its written report and has also taken steps to prevent any recurrence of the episode, in particular by seeking to ensure that all relevant personnel are aware of their obligations and of the procedures to be followed. On the basis of our discussions with the US authorities, I have no reason to believe that this was other than an isolated incident which arose from an administrative error.

Moreover, as the Minister and I have previously emphasised, this incident is quite distinct from the question of extraordinary rendition, and I remain confident of the continuing validity and weight of the clear assurances repeatedly given to us by the US authorities in that context.

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