Aengus Ó Snodaigh (Dublin South Central, Sinn Fein)
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Question 616: To ask the Minister for Foreign Affairs if, in view of the serious allegations against Ireland made by Amnesty International that Shannon Airport is being used to carry out extraordinary renditions, the Government will end the use of Shannon Airport by the US military pending the outcome of the UN investigation into the matter; and the way in which the Government intends to assist the inquiries of Mr. Martin Scheinin who is leading the UN inquiry; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25725/05]

Dermot Ahern (Louth, Fianna Fail)
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I am aware of Amnesty International reports that make reference to media and other reports alleging that Shannon Airport has been used by the US to transit prisoners who are suspected of terrorist activity. The Amnesty International reports themselves make no specific allegations about Shannon Airport.

Similarly, I am aware of a media report that Martin Scheinin, the UN Commission on Human Rights' Special Rapporteur on the Promotion and Protection of Human Rights and Fundamental Freedoms while Countering Terrorism, has been contacted by Irish citizens regarding allegations about the use of Irish airports by the US to transit prisoners who are suspected of terrorist activity. Last week my Department was contacted by Professor Scheinin's office to confirm that neither he, nor any other special rapporteur, is currently investigating or inquiring into this matter. I understand that the British and US governments have received similar communications from Professor Scheinin's office.

On the matter of US aircraft transporting prisoners landing in Ireland, I would refer the Deputy to my replies to Parliamentary Questions Nos.152 of 2 February 2005, 214 of 22 March 2005, 194 of 27 April 2005, 49 of 28 April 2005 and 377 of 14 June 2005.

The Government has on several occasions made clear to the US authorities that it would be illegal to transit prisoners for rendition purposes through Irish territory without the express permission of the Irish authorities, acting in accordance with Irish and international law. The US authorities have confirmed that they have not done so and that they would not do so without seeking the permission of the Irish authorities. No request for such authorisation has been received from the US authorities. The Government does not intend to end the use of Shannon Airport by the US military. Its policy in this regard has been stated on numerous occasions.