Vol. 489 No. 7
48 Ms McManus asked the Minister for Defence if the report has yet been received from the court of inquiry established to investigate an incident in Kilworth Camp in December 1997 in which a solider lost a hand and four others were less seriously injured while training with a mortar; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [9254/98]
101 Mr. D. Carey asked the Minister for Defence the outcome of the investigations into the recent accident during military training (details supplied); the implications, if any, for safety; and the changes, if any, necessary to ensure high safety standards. [9037/98]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 48 and 101 together.
On the 9 December 1997, at Kilworth Firing Range, an accident occurred during firing practices with a 60mm light mortar. During the exercise, which was being conducted by Defence Forces personnel of the Southern Command, an explosion occurred in the vicinity of the gun position resulting in injuries to five personnel. A court of inquiry was initiated immediately following the accident and its deliberations are still ongoing. The court of inquiry will encompass the findings of a military police investigation and a technical board of inquiry. As part of the technical board of inquiry, a metallurgical analysis will be carried out.
Weapons handling training on the 60mm mortar is continuing but live firing for training purposes has, however, ceased pending completion of the aforementioned investigations. Safety procedures for military exercises are constantly reviewed and the current regulations were in place during this exercise.
These regulations provide for the testing of personnel in basic skills before firing. They include safety precautions and misfire drills.
Should the findings of the court of inquiry indicate that any changes are called for in the interests of safety, these will be implemented.
