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

The issue of the apparent deception of the public is a recurring theme in respect of Question Time and Deputy Wallace. Could I make it clear to him that there is no question of deceiving the public? Deputy Wallace will be completely familiar with the arrangements for authorising the landing of US military aircraft at Irish airports, namely, the Air Navigation (Foreign Military Aircraft) Order of 1952 and related arrangements. These arrangements apply to all foreign military aircraft, including US aircraft landing at Shannon. Ireland's traditional policy of military neutrality involves non-participation in any military alliance. Ireland has not entered into any military alliance with the US or any other country or organisation.

The use of Shannon Airport by the US military is a long-standing practice and has been in place for over 50 years. Permitting the use of Shannon by the US military does not challenge or undermine Ireland's policy of military neutrality nor does it deceive anybody. The regulations are quite clear.

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