Written Answers. - National Emergency Plan.
Emmet Stagg
Question:
64
Mr. Stagg
asked the
Minister for Defence
the progress made to date by the office of emergency planning established by his Department following the attacks in the United States on 11 September 2001; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
[4680/02]
In the aftermath of the events of 11 September 2001, the Government moved quickly and decisively to respond to the evolving international situation. In replies to previous questions to the House on 4 December 2001, I outlined details in relation to the establishment of the Government task force on emergency planning and the office of emergency planning.
A review of the structures under which emergency planning is conducted is continuing. The objective of the Government is to ensure that all State bodies can react quickly and efficiently to any large-scale emergency. As chairman of the task force, I intend that such responses would be characterised by effective management of all aspects of emergency planning and by a high level of public confidence in all the response arrangements. The task force has been meeting regularly to review the various emergency planning and response issues. The role of this task force is to ensure a co-ordinated and effective response to large-scale emergencies.
I am pleased to report to the House that there is a high level of co-operation between my Department and all other Departments and agencies through the task force on emergency planning, the office of emergency planning and the interdepartmental working group on emergency planning.
The office of emergency planning provides a key support to the task force and co-ordinates the work of the interdepartmental working group on emergency planning to meet the new threats arising from international terrorism. The existing lead role of Departments and agencies in respect of specific emergency planning arrangements will continue.
The review of existing emergency plans has been conducted in the light of current developments and initial review shows that there are sound arrangements within the relevant Departments and agencies for dealing with emergency issues. The technical expertise and emergency planning skills that are required are available but there is a need to further the training and development of expertise in this important area.
I am keenly aware of the public confidence issue involved in emergency planning. It is imperative that the information being presented to both the media and the public be aimed at developing understanding of the issues and likely responses that any emergency may require.
As chairman of the task force, I presented the first report of the task force to Government on 11 December 2001 and I would like to thank those who have been actively involved across a range of disciplines, Departments and agencies in supporting the work of task force. I will continue to report regularly to Government and to this House on the progress being made.
