152 Caoimhghin Ó Caoláin asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if representations were made to his Department in relation to the incidents during and following the burning of Long Kesh political prisoners' camp in October 1974; if so, if these representations raised concern over the possible use of CR gas; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25146/99]

On 5 February 1975, in reply to a question from Dr. William Loughnane, the then Minister for Foreign Affairs, Dr. Garret FitzGerald, told the House that the Government's concern that CR gas should not be used in Northern Ireland had been communicated to the British authorities on several occasions.

With regard to allegations that this substance had been used during the disturbances culminating in the burning of Long Kesh prison on the night of 15 October 1974, the then Minister stated that "there was a suggestion that it was used at the time of the burning of Long Kesh of which we have no evidence". Dr. FitzGerald also said that "We have made our position clear. We regard it as a quite inappropriate weapon". The British authorities have strongly denied that CR gas was used on that occasion.

My officials have been unable to find other representations on this matter.