Vol. 556 No. 4
59 Mr. O'Shea 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. [20516/02]
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, however, a number of live rounds of ammunition were accidentally discharged. The injured private received bullet wounds to his arm and chest. A military ambulance was on site and he was immediately treated by a qualified emergency medical technician. He was then transferred to Tallaght hospital and subsequently to St. James's Hospital where he underwent treatment.
Military police were immediately called to the scene and carried out a full investigation. Resulting from this investigation military disciplinary action is ongoing. In addition, a civil action has been initiated on behalf of the injured party. Against this background it would be inappropriate for me to comment further on the matter at this time. However, I assure the Deputy that safety procedures have been revised to prevent a recurrence of similar events.
