Shannon Airport Leaflet (2020) Flashcards
Why does the leaflet state the airport was misused ?
Shannon Airport has been used by the US military for almost two decades, effectively serving as a forward operating base to support operations in the Middle East.
How does this tint Irish neutrality ?
The continuous use of Shannon Airport by the US military has eroded Irish neutrality, which is constitutionally protected.
What constitutional articles go against this use of the airport ?
Article 28.3.1 states that war shall not be declared, and the State shall not participate in any war without the assent of Dáil Éireann (Irish parliament).
Article 29 affirms the State’s devotion to peace and friendly co-operation among nations based on international justice and morality.
How is it in breach of Hague Convention ?
In the case of Horgan vs. An Taoiseach et al., it was ruled that by allowing US troops to use Shannon Airport for the Iraq war, Ireland was in breach of the Hague Convention Respecting the Rights and Duties of Neutral Powers and Persons in Case of War on Land.
What does the Amnesty International report state ?
Amnesty International reported that CIA aircraft involved in extraordinary rendition (forcible kidnapping and transfer to secret prisons for torture) repeatedly landed and refueled at Shannon Airport.
What does the Council of Europe state ?
A Council of Europe report identified Ireland as one of 14 European states that colluded in rendition, despite government claims to the contrary.
Was the presence of US officers confirmed ?
The Minister for Foreign Affairs confirmed that US officers of military rank are permanently based at Shannon Airport to assist with the transit of US government or government-contracted flights carrying officials, civilian and military personnel, and cargo.
Was this ever publicly acknowledged ?
In 2010, President Barack Obama thanked the Irish Government for allowing US troops to use Shannon Airport on their way to and from Iraq and Afghanistan.
How was this received by the population ?
Shannonwatch, a local peace and human rights activist group, started monthly vigils at the airport in 2008 to protest its use by the US military.
Was this ever investigated ?
Despite concerns and evidence of breaches of laws related to aviation, humanitarianism, human rights, and neutrality, no investigation was undertaken by the Irish government.
