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

I am aware of issues before the court, as indeed is the Deputy. She will be aware of the current regulations in respect of the inspection of civil aircraft. In that regard the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport bears responsibility. Authorised officers of the Irish Aviation Authority have the power to inspect all civil aircraft in Ireland for the purposes of ensuring full compliance with the Air Navigation and Transport Act. With regard to civil aircraft, the appropriate orders empower an authorised officer to enter and inspect an aircraft if it is suspected that the provisions on carrying munitions of war are being contravened. In addition, where there are reasonable grounds to suspect that a criminal offence is being committed, the Garda Síochána has available powers of entry, search and seizure as part of its duty to prevent and detect crime. In accordance with international practice, foreign military aircraft passing through Ireland with the permission of the Government are not subject to routine inspections and searches.

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