Government Must Robustly Challenge British Claims on Lough Foyle

​Fianna Fáil Spokesperson on Foreign Affairs and Trade Darragh O Brien has called on the Government to robustly defend Ireland’s interests in Lough Foyle, following the British Secretary of State’s claim of ownership of the entire Lough.


He commented, “Since Independence, Ireland has correctly asserted its ownership of Lough Foyle. Attempts to settle the issue have been ongoing, but in the context of Brexit it is obvious that there is added impetus to finally agree the issue.


“The Secretary of State’s assertion that the UK owns the entirety of the Lough would appear to have escalated the issue and are a source of concern. His claim is completely unsustainable and must be robustly challenged by the Government.


“For our part, Fianna Fáil rejects this assertion of ownership entirely and I will be seeking assurances from the Minister for Foreign Affairs on what strategy he will follow to meet this challenge.

“I will be writing to Mr Brokenshire to reassert Fianna Fail’s position on the issue.”