asked the Minister for Defence the policy of the Army in relation to training appropriate personnel so as to minimise the risk of essential utilities and services being withdrawn without the possibility of the State being in the position to guarantee such essential supplies; and whether any new procedures are being or will be put in place to ensure, in so far as it is possible or practicable, that the State will protect itself against the sudden loss of essential supply of service.
Written Answers. - Essential Service Utilities.
281.
, Limerick West): The Government have in specific emergency situations in the past directed that the Defence Forces should assist in maintaining supplies and services essential to the life of the community. The provision of such assistance at any given time is, understandably, dependent on the availability of resources and skills within the force and having regard to prior operational commitments. No new procedures in this regard are contemplated at present.