asked the Minister for Defence if his attention has been drawn to a report (details supplied) relating to Border roads, if this report is accurate in relation to the checkpoint set up in the Drummully salient and if so, if he will outline (a) the date and details, (b) the reason the Gazelle helicopter was used for this operation instead of the Alouette III type which has high visibility national markings, (c) if he has satisfied himself that the use of this aircraft which was acquired for pilot training is not dangerous in view of the fact that similar aircraft are used by the British forces in Northern Ireland.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Border Roads.
24.
I have seen the report referred to. Pursuant to their role of rendering aid to the civil power, the Defence Forces give assistance to the Garda Síochána as required.
It is not the practice to give information about specific security operations. However, I can say that the Air Corps Gazelle helicopter has not been used to transport troops to the location referred to. The remainder of the question does not, therefore, arise.