Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 5 Feb 1991

Vol. 404 No. 6

Written Answers. - Civil Defence Arrangements.

Dick Spring

Question:

19 Mr. Spring asked the Taoiseach if he will outline the arrangements made to ensure a state of readiness in terms of Civil Defence and any other areas under his control in respect of any contingencies arising from the Gulf War; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

The Taoiseach

The emergence of possible warfare in the general Gulf area late last year led to a full examination of the various threats to this country which could arise in such a conflict and of Civil Defence measures which might be necessary as a consequence of the escalation of the war.

Prior to the opening of hostilities, the Civil Defence Branch of my Department had taken steps to acquaint Civil Defence members of the most up-to-date information on the effects of nuclear, chemical and biological weapons. Two briefing documents were issued to enable local Civil Defence officers to respond to queries from members of the public. The Civil Defence Branch of the Department have also furnished advice direct to members of the public where requested and have prepared a special edition of theCivil Defence News containing relevant information and advice.

The national warning and monitoring network, embracing Civil Defence, the Observer Corps and other agencies is permanently in place and was exercised countrywide last October. Information facilities for the processing of data for immediate advice to Government have been put in place.

In the broader context of emergency planning, interdepartmental briefings and consultations have been held to ensure that all Departments that could be affected by the war would have contingency plans in readiness.

The military authorities have arranged the provision of NBC protective suits to all Irish military personnel and dependants currently in the Middle East area and the provision of chemical detector sets to Irish units and detachments serving in UNIFIL.