Madam, - For the second time in recent months potential security risks have forced the diversion of a civil airliner to an Irish airport. When aircraft were similarly diverted to London and Amsterdam they received escorts from British and Dutch military jets. Despite what seems to best security practice airliners diverted to Irish airports receive no such escorts.
Ireland remains alone in the developed world in its inability to intercept and escort rogue or unidentified aircraft, either with our own military resources or through our membership of a military alliance. The former Defence Minister, Michael Smith, explained, prior to the EU head of state visit on May 1st, that Irish citizens could not be afforded the same level of protection and security as the citizens of every other developed country because Irish money could be better spent on the health service. Unlike Ireland, other countries do not consider the provision of a world class health service and the necessary defence and security of their citizens as mutually exclusive.
In the light of recent events the new Minister for Defence, Willie O'Dea, should reconsider policy on this matter and ensure that Irish citizens are protected in a similar manner to the citizens of every other developed country. Any policy revision should account for the fact that 90 per cent of transatlantic air traffic passes through Irish air space and the potential risk demonstrated by the events of 9/11 to both Ireland and our neighbours. - Yours, etc.,
AOIBHEANN WALL, Kilbraney, Newbawn, Co Wexford.