Michael D Higgins (Galway West, Labour)
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Question 625: To ask the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform his views on persistent reports and substantial circumstantial evidence (details supplied) that persons are being smuggled through Irish territory in circumstances that amount to unlawful detention in both Irish and international law; the checks which have been put in place at Shannon Airport by the Garda and security authorities to establish whether there is further evidence of such wrong-doing; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [19416/05]

Michael McDowell (Dublin South East, Progressive Democrats)
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I refer the Deputy to my reply to Parliamentary Question No. 78 of 3 November 2004.

In the case of US military aircraft or chartered civilian aircraft transporting military cargo, the US Embassy submits applications to confirm that the aircraft seeking landing permission will comply with all operative criteria. The Garda Síochána is notified in advance of the arrival of all such flights and of the cargo contents and passenger numbers.

I am informed by the Garda authorities that two formal complaints in respect of allegations of the kind referred to by the Deputy were made in October and December 2004. These complaints were thoroughly investigated by the Garda Síochána, and investigation files were submitted to the Director of Public Prosecutions.

I am further informed that no prosecution was directed in respect of the complaint made in October 2004, as there was no evidence to support any criminal charge. Directions are awaited in respect of the second investigation file.

Regarding any aircraft landing in the State, the Deputy can be assured that the Garda Síochána will conduct a full investigation in any case in which a credible complaint of criminal activity is made, to include, where appropriate, an inspection of the aircraft in question.