Vol. 263 No. 10
asked the Minister for Defence if his attention has been drawn to an article in a newspaper (details supplied) which states that the UDA planned war across the Border, that Buncrana was defenceless and that Irish Army patrols were not providing security for the area through the establishment of main road check points; and the action the Government intend taking in the matter.
172.
asked the Minister for Defence if, in view of the increasing dangers to persons and property in areas adjacent to the Border and in County Donegal as a result of the troubles in Northern Ireland, he will detail the steps the Government proposes taking to provide security at an adequate level in terms of Army personnel.
With the permission of the Ceann Comhairle, I propose to take Questions Nos. 171 and 172 together.
Pursuant to their role of rendering aid to the civil power, the Defence Forces provide Border patrols and give assistance to the Garda Síochána in dealing with Border incidents.
The disposition of troops in the area is determined by the exigencies of the service from time to time. In general, it would be contrary to policy to disclose details of military security activities.
173.
asked the Minister for Defence whether any extra allowance is payable to Army personnel engaged on duty in the Border areas.
An allowance is not payable to Army personnel engaged on duty in the Border areas. Married officers and men who, by reason of Border duty, are separated from their families and away from their permanent stations, receive free rations.
