Micheál Martin (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail)
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I propose to take Questions Nos. 52 and 53 together.

I am advised that the Defence Forces do not retain comprehensive records of foreign military ships passing through the Irish Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) - as I stated in my response to Parliamentary Question No. 240 of 13 June 2023, foreign military ships operating in the Irish EEZ are operating on the high seas and exercise freedom of navigation under international law. There is no requirement for foreign military ships to identify themselves to any Irish authority whilst in the Irish EEZ.

The Naval Service and the Air Corps currently patrol the entire 200 mile EEZ and periodically patrol beyond these limits to protect specific fisheries. These patrols are carried out on a regular and frequent basis and are directed to all areas of Irish waters as necessary. These maritime patrols are multi-tasked in that they undertake sea fishery protection, general surveillance, security and other duties such as search and rescue, diving operations and drugs interdiction.

The conduct of surveillance activities by the Defence Forces is an operational matter, details of which are not disclosed for security reasons. The Military authorities provide regular assessments, reports and briefings to me as Minister for Defence and to officials of my Department as appropriate. These assessments, by their nature, are confidential.