asked the Minister for Justice the cost to his Department for the year ended 31 December 1988 of Garda Síochána escorts for security companies transporting cash; and the amount of finance recouped to his Department from the companies and financial institutions for such services.
Written Answers. - Security Companies Escorts.
35.
In accordance with a decision by the Government some years ago, certain cash movements are escorted by the Garda and the Defence Forces to ensure that the cash does not fall into the wrong hands. I am informed by the Garda authorities that the cost of providing escorts in 1988 has not been separately compiled and that it would require a disproportionate amount of Garda time and effort to do so.
The escorts are necessary in the public interest and have not been requested by the security companies or the financial institutions. In addition, substantial amounts of the cash escorted are for distribution as social welfare payments. In these circumstances, recoupment of the cost of the escorts is not sought.