asked the Taoiseach if he will state what are the functions of the Defence Conference, how it is constituted, whether it is at present meeting regularly, who are its present members, and how and when they were appointed.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - The Defence Conference.
The Defence Conference was called into being on 28th May, 1940, following agreement between all Parties. Its present members are:—The Minister for the Co-ordination of Defensive Measures (Chairman), The Minister for Justice, The Minister for Defence, Senator Mulcahy, Deputy O'Higgins, Deputy Norton, Deputy Davin; and they have been members from the beginning.
The Terms of Reference of the Defence Conference are covered by the following statement I made in the Dáil on the 28th May:—
"I have asked the Leaders of the Opposition Parties to join in a conference of three members of the Government, three of the principal Opposition, and two of the Labour Party, to meet each week and at such other times as may be necessary, to consult and advise on matters of national defence. They have agreed."
The Defence Conference has held in all 83 meetings. It is meeting as often as its members decide to be necessary.