Taoiseach not worried about legal action after deportees flown through Shannon in defiance of US judge's ruling
In the early hours of Wednesday, the flight landed at the airport in Co Clare, carrying eight men from the United States to Africa. The flight took off despite Boston judge Brian E Murphy saying that the actions of the Homeland Security Department, were 'unquestionably violative' of the court order and could amount to criminal contempt.
Taoiseach Micheál Martin said he did not think Ireland should have any worries about being caught up in legal proceedings.
'I wouldn't think so,' said Mr Martin, speaking at the launch of the new Dosco cleaning supplies plant in Cork. 'First of all, there are various international agreements and legal agreements that pertain to aircraft landing and refuelling.
'It wouldn't be immediately apparent to Irish authorities in terms of the fact - and again, I think enquiries should be made – that there were any deportees on any particular flight.
'These are matters that we will review and engage with our partners in the US and indeed elsewhere, government to government, because obviously our planes fly and land in different locations to refuel.
'I don't think we are [liable for any breaches of court orders], but again, enquiries are being made. I haven't got a full report on it yet but the Department of Transport and Foreign Affairs [will provide one].
When questioned on when he can expect that report the Taoiseach responded, 'shortly, I hope.'
Mr Martin said he wants to avoid a 'knee-jerk' response in potentially introducing diplomatic clearance for all civil flights following the incident.
'There are capacity issues there,' the Taoiseach said.
'But I do think trust is important, and so when planes fly through our airspace – if they are carrying weapons – there is an agreement that they let us know. Trust is an important aspect of relationships between countries in respect of honouring aviation covenants and agreements.
'We need to assess what has happened in the first instance.'
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