asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if he has received a protest on behalf of the members of the crew of the Irish Lights vessel s.s Isolda concerning the action of the British Navy in boarding the vessel and carrying out a search of the crew's quarters while at sea during the course of their normal duties in the protection of life at sea around the shores of the entire country; and, is so, the action he proposes to take to ensure that there is no repetition of this occurrence.

I am aware of the terms of the protest made by the members of the crew of the Isolda and have taken the matter up with the British authorities.

Will the Minister tell the House if the Commissioners of Irish Lights protested?

The Commissioners of Irish Lights brought the matter to the attention of the Minister. I presume they also took the matter up through their own channels.

I asked the question simply because the Commissioners of Irish Lights are under the control of Trinity House, who are under the British Ministry of Transport. We had the comic position of a British Navy vessel raiding a vessel that is directly under the control of the British Government.

I am sorry to interrupt the Deputy but he is making a speech rather than asking a question.

Representations were made through the British Ambassador on 12th July.

Can the Minister state what response has been made to the representations made by the Minister for Foreign Affairs to the British authorities?

Representations were made through the British Ambassador on 12th July and we are awaiting a response.