asked the Minister for Defence if he has any means at his disposal for monitoring the frequency and extent of submarine traffic in Ireland's territorial waters.

Limerick West): In accordance with international law submarines within territorial waters are, in exercise of a right of innocent passage, required to navigate on the surface and show their flags. As specific authorisation to exercise this right or notification that it has been exercised is not required, the frequency and extent of such traffic is not monitored by my Department.