Written answer
Military Aircraft
188. Deputy Thomas Pringle asked the Minister for Transport in light of international media reports that a company (details supplied) have illegally transported munitions of war from the US to Israel over Ireland on eight occasions between 2 September and 9 October, if there has been any contact with the company in relation to these flights; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42736/24]
Comment on this
Under the Air Navigation (Carriage of Munitions of War, Weapons and Dangerous Goods) Orders 1973 and 1989, the carriage of munitions of war by civil aircraft in Irish sovereign territory and by Irish-registered civil aircraft, wherever they are operating, is prohibited, unless an exemption from this prohibition is granted by the Minister for Transport.
Over a number of weeks, media reports have been published alleging contraventions of Irish legislation by a number of air operators, including the operator that the Deputy has referred to.
My Department is examining the flights concerned and has corresponded will all air operators concerned, responses received to date are being considered and where necessary further information is being sought.
So as not to prejudice any potential future action, I cannot speak to the specifics of the initial analysis undertaken by my officials.