Charles Flanagan (Laois-Offaly, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

In regard to my engagement with EU colleagues in the region, including in particular Lithuania, Latvia, Estonia, Bulgaria and Romania, these matters are discussed on an ongoing basis at EU Foreign Affairs Council meetings. I am fully briefed by my colleagues in the area who have expressed serious concerns about the ongoing situation in their neighbourhood.

In regard to the presence of Russian aircraft in Irish-controlled airspace, on 28 January and 18 February Russian military aircraft were in an area in respect of which the Irish Aviation Authority has responsibility for the provision, operation and management of air navigation services and civil aviation.

The Department of Transport, Tourism and Sport has relayed its concerns to the International Civil Aviation Authority. It emphasised that the IAA co-ordinated closely with its UK counterpart at all stages during the incidents to avoid any risk to civil aircraft. Although there was no such risk on these occasions, non-notified and non-controlled flight activity is not acceptable.

On 3 February, senior officials in my Department met the Russian ambassador in Iveagh House to convey the serious concern of the Irish Government about the incidents. On 19 February, these concerns were further underlined to the deputy head of mission in the Russian embassy. The Russians have noted our concerns and I hope they will act accordingly.

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