asked the Minister for External Affairs whether the provision of civilian police by this country has ever been proposed in the case of the Cyprus United Nations operation; and whether any consideration has been given to such a development by this Government.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Cyprus Peace Keeping Force.
6.
On 14th April, 1964, the Government considered a request from the Secretary-General for the provision of police officers for the United Nations peace keeping force in Cyprus. As stated, however, in the press release issued by my Department on that date, the Government decided that because of staff shortages in the Garda Síochána, they could not meet the Secretary-General's request.
No subsequent request for provision of members of the Garda Síochána for United Nations peace keeping operations has been received.
Does the Minister know if these staff shortages still continue in the Garda Síochána? Will these shortages continue as a reason for our refusing any request that may be made?
I do not think there is any alleviation of the position with regard to staff in the Garda Síochána.