Written answers

Tuesday, 25 October 2016

Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade

International Security Co-operation

Photo of Maureen O'SullivanMaureen O'Sullivan (Dublin Central, Independent)
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59. To ask the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade his views on media reports that Ireland has an agreement with its UK counterparts to allow RAF jets access Irish airspace for defence and counter-terrorism purposes in the scenario of airspace intrusion; and his further views on the fact that having a possible defence arrangement with a NATO member is eroding Ireland's status of neutrality. [26946/16]

Photo of Charles FlanaganCharles Flanagan (Laois, Fine Gael)
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I cannot comment on any reports concerning arrangements for national security or responses that might be taken in the event of a terrorist attack.

I can confirm however that the Government's engagement in international security cooperation is aimed at ensuring public safety and is conducted with full respect for Irish sovereign decision-making authority and for Ireland's long standing policy of military neutrality.

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