P. J. Sheehan
Question:43 Mr. Sheehan asked the Minister for Defence if regular exercises are conducted by the ranger unit on and off Inishmhicileáin; and his views on whether it is in the interest of security.
Written Answers. - Defence Forces Exercise.
Dick Spring
Question:45 Mr. Spring asked the Minister for Defence if he will outline the reasons the Defence Forces were involved in manoeuvres around the island of Inishmhicileáin in August; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
I propose to take Questions Nos. 43 and 45 together.
It has been the practice of the Defence Forces for many years to carry out training exercises as part of contingency planning for tasks they might be required to perform. The exercise referred to in Deputy Spring's question enabled the Army, the Air Corps and the Naval Service to participate in joint operations in pursuance of such planning.
Similar exercises have been held at other locations e.g. Blasket Islands, Aran Islands, Bere Island, off Kinsale and Dublin Bay.
For reasons of security it would not be appropriate to disclose details regarding training exercises by the Army Ranger Wing.