Austin Deasy
Question:51 Mr. Deasy asked the Minister for Defence the intention, if any, he has of using the Armed Forces to assist the civil authorities in maintaining public order where necessary. [18210/97]
Written Answers - Maintenance of Public Order.
Primary responsibility for the maintenance of law and order rests with the Garda Síochána. The Defence Forces, pursuant to their role of rendering aid to the civil power, assist the Garda as required. Requests for aid to the civil power are normally made by a member of the Garda Síochána not below the rank of Inspector.