asked the Minister for Defence if any communication was exchanged between the Irish Army and the British Army as a result of the incursion of British troops into this State on 31 May, and if he will make a statement on the matter.

The answer to the first part of the question is in the negative; the second part of the question does not, therefore, arise.

The British Army crossed the Border into this State many times. In view of this fact can the Minister give any indication whether any correspondence was entered into with the British Army? Have there been any communications in the past? What is the exact position on this and other related matters?

Protests following incursions of the type referred to by the Deputy are made by the Department of Foreign Affairs. It would not be appropriate for the Defence Forces to make such protests since the Department of Foreign Affairs are charged with that duty.