Louis J. Belton
Question:6 Mr. Belton asked the Minister for Defence if he will outline the cost incurred by his Department in the years 1990-91 and 1991-92 of providing Army escorts for the secure transfer of cash to banks.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Transfer of Cash.
The estimated direct additional cost excluding pay in respect of the Defence Forces of providing assistance to the Garda Síochána in protecting movements of cash in 1990 was £1.5 million and in 1991 was £1.6 million.
Other than the banks there are organisations dealing with considerable amounts of cash. Can those organisations avail of the same facilities as the banks and, if not, why not?
I understand the military escorts for movements of cash were introduced in June 1978, following an armed military type operation in May 1978 in County Limerick, in which a robbery took place. The escorts were provided by direction of the Government at that time in the interests of national security. They were not requested by the banks. I am sure if any other large organisation wishing to move large sums of money made such a request it would be considered.
Does the Minister envisage a situation where the Government could recoup some of the cost involved and whether there is legislation in train to recoup such costs?
The Deputy will be aware that the Minister for Finance in his Budget Statement indicated that he proposed to seek a contribution of £2 million from the banks towards the cost of the provision of these cash escorts. It is proposed that the contribution would be divided between the Departments of Defence and Justice. I understand negotiations are continuing on that matter. I am not aware that legislation will be needed.