Leo Varadkar (Dublin West, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

The Shannon Airport Authority, SAA, has statutory responsibility to operate, manage and develop Shannon Airport. I have no involvement in matters affecting its commercial operations. Primary responsibility for law and order, including the protection of the internal security of the State, rests with An Garda Síochána. When requested to so do, in what is referred to as aid to the civil power, ATCP, the Defence Forces may assist An Garda Síochána in carrying out some of its functions. I understand from the Department of Defence which has responsibility for this matter that the Defence Forces have provided assistance for An Garda Síochána at Shannon Airport on occasion. The SAA advises that every effort is made to ensure any disturbance, including those requiring the assistance of An Garda Síochána and the Defence Forces, does not affect its operations.

Citizens have the right to assemble and protest peacefully at Shannon Airport and An Garda Síochána will facilitate such gatherings on occasion. In this regard, organisers of peaceful protest events should liaise with local gardaí beforehand. However, if protesters do not abide by the laws of the land and engage in criminal activities or public order offences, the Garda and the Defence Forces, if necessary, must intervene to the extent necessary to protect the operation of the airport, its user airlines and the travelling public.

See this speech in context