asked the Minister for the Co-ordination of Defensive Measures if, in view of the present friendly relations existing between this country and all other countries, and having regard to the danger to child life of the overground air-raid shelters in the city, he will take the necessary steps either to remove all such structures or to reduce very considerably their number.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Overground Air-Raid Shelters.
For some time past the Air-Raid Precautions Branch has been engaged in the preparation of post-war plans in connection with the various types of air-raid shelters. The temporary street surface shelters will be removed the moment the Government is satisfied that conditions warrant.
Does the Minister think there is sufficient likelihood of hostile bombing of this capital to justify maintaining all the overground air-raid shelters, in view of the danger of accidents to children who run out from behind those shelters? Could he not consider reducing the number of shelters in certain streets where there are a great many children?
As I have said in answer to the Deputy, the shelters will be maintained only until the moment when the Government is satisfied that they can be removed. I am glad to say that the air-raid shelters have not been responsible for a very big percentage of the total fatal and serious accidents to children under 16. They have not proved such a grave source of danger as we feared. Over these last three years about 5 per cent., I think, of the fatal accidents to children under 16 and about 6 per cent. of the serious accidents to children under 16 have been due to air-raid shelters.
That is a great tribute to the skill and care of the drivers.
It is.
Is the Minister aware that the corporation have recommended the removal of the air-raid shelters and has he given any reply to their recommendation?
I think it would be well for us all to wait and not to shout until we are clear of the wood.
Sometimes it is as good to give a shout in the wood: you might find yourself knocked down by a tree.