Paschal Donohoe (Dublin Central, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

My Department continues to consult the Departments referred to by the Deputy on each application received for permits under the Air Navigation (Carriage of Munitions of War, Weapons and Dangerous Goods) Order 1973. I am in contact with the Departments in respect of the policy and administration matters related to the 1973 order. The primary purpose of the Air Navigation (Carriage of Munitions of War, Weapons and Dangerous Goods) Order 1973, as amended, is ensuring the safety of aircraft and those on board. The Deputy's concerns relate primarily to foreign policy considerations; these are not my responsibility.

The rights for civil aircraft to overfly and land for refuelling purposes are known as the first two freedoms of the air.  Such rights are vital for the operations of airlines around the world, including Irish airlines, and it is only on rare occasions that a state would deny such rights. Civil aircraft being used to transport military personnel and goods have been landing in and overflying Ireland for many decades. The vast majority of the airlines operating these flights are from the United States and other NATO countries. However, exemptions also have been granted to airlines from Russia and Switzerland during the years. These flights are operated in compliance with the International Civil Aviation Organisation's safety rules. This period covers many international crises and military confrontations. Ireland has not sought to withdraw or suspend such permissions at any stage during this time.

I should also point out that successive Governments have considered the granting of such permissions to be compatible with Ireland’s traditional policy of military neutrality, which is characterised by non-participation in military alliances.

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