Vol. 276 No. 13
I move:
That a supplementary sum not exceeding £3,263,000 be granted to defray the charge which will come in course of payment during the period commencing on the 1st day of April, 1974, and ending on the 31st day of December, 1974, for the salaries and expenses of the Office of the Minister for Defence, including certain services administered by that Office; for the pay and expenses of the Defence Forces; and for payment of certain grants-in-aid.
Could I ask the Minister if he has made allowance for the provision of extra Army units in Border towns subject to hazards and dangers? I am referring in particular to Swanlinbar where, I understand, the local Garda Síochána are anxious to have two units of the Army so that they can do an all night patrol in that town where it is necessary, seeing that. I think, five attacks have been made, either by bomb or by bullet, and where an officer of the Garda Síochána lives with his wife, in a house which is bullet scarred.
The Deputy, of course, must be reminded that he is referring to last year's Estimates. But I am pleased to tell him I am having the matter to which he has referred investigated. He may take it that as there was always Army back-up for gardaí in that particular area there will be in the future. I will see to it personally that it is done and, if necessary, speed it up.
The specific question I asked was in relation to the provision of a two unit Army allotment to Swanlinbar so that an all night patrol could be kept up in the area. I do not know whether this matter would come within the ambit of the Minister, but I would raise also the question of lighting around the town to facilitate its proper defence.
The matter of what happens militarily is one predominantly for the military. I am in constant contact with them and in conference with them. I have been in conference with them on the particular matter raised by the Deputy. He may take it that I am as anxious as he is to see to it that everything that should be done is attended to. I will not specify what should be done as that is a military matter.
