Vol. 411 No. 8
107 Mr. Ryan asked the Minister for Defence the number of facilities in the Defence Forces since 1988; the investigation procedures involved; the changes which have resulted from such investigations; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
The number of serving personnel of the Permanent Defence Force who have died since 1 January 1988 is 75. The investigation procedures involved depend on the particular circumstances of each case. The Garda Síochána are notified of deaths while on duty or in barracks which do not appear to be due to natural causes. In such cases a military policy and/or Garda investigation is carried out.
Where the death is due to injury while on duty a military court of inquiry is held. The findings of courts of inquiry are submitted to the relevant military authorities for such action as they consider necessary.
