Dáil Éireann debate -
Wednesday, 17 Apr 2002

Vol. 552 No. 1

Written Answers. - Military Investigations.

Liz McManus

Question:

37 Ms McManus asked the Minister for Defence if he has received the report of the investigation by the military authorities into the incident in the Glen of Imaal on 27 November 2001, in which a member was injured in a shooting incident; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [11781/02]

Minister for Defence (Mr. M. Smith): On the night of 27 November 2001, a progression course from two to three star private ranking was under way in the Glen of Imaal. A number of personnel were instructed to fire blank ammunition during the course of the exercise. During the exercise a number of live rounds of ammunition were accidentally discharged. The injured private received bullets wounds to his arm and chest. A military ambulance was on site and the injured party was immediately treated by a qualified emergency medical technician. The injured private was then transferred to Tallaght Hospital and subsequently to St. James's Hospital where he underwent treatment. The injured private is still under medical care.

Military police were immediately called to the scene and are currently finalising their investigation into the incident. They hope to be in a position to submit their report to the military authorities shortly. Pending the final outcome of the investigation, arrangements have been put in place to ensure that a recurrence of the events of the 27 of November does not take place.