asked the Minister for Justice what were the grounds on which it was decided to provide a guard of honour for the Taoiseach on the occasion of his visit to Kells in July last to address an election meeting; whether election meetings are considered to be formal occasions justifying the provision of guards of honour for Ministers; and whether he will ensure that guards of honour are not provided in future in such circumstances.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Guards of Honour.
5.
Mr. Ryan
A guard of honour was provided on the occasion referred to in accordance with established practice, under which honours are accorded to the Taoiseach on occasions of a formal nature including political meetings, unless a guard of honour from other than Garda sources has been arranged. Guards of honour are not provided on the occasion of political meetings for Ministers other than the Taoiseach. It is not proposed to make any change in the present practice.