Vol. 559 No. 3
38 Mr. Cuffe asked the Minister for Defence if the Office of Emergency Planning established within his Department is considering measures similar to those being taken in the United Kingdom to counter potential terrorist threats involving biological warfare; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26098/02]
The Office of Emergency Planning was established in my Department on the 4 October 2001 following the tragic events of the 11 September 2001. The office has worked with all Departments and agen cies which have lead roles in emergencies to look afresh and re-evaluate their arrangements in the light of the new threats.
All Governments are considering how populations might be protected from the effects of terrorist attacks and particular emphasis has been placed on the consequences of the use of biological agents.
The European Union is coordinating issues for member states and there is ongoing work setting up arrangements to share information, expertise and resources should any of these horrific biological agents be released.
Consideration of the consequences for Ireland of the terrorist use of biological weapons has been a concern of mine as chair of the Government task force on emergency planning since its inception. My colleague, Deputy Martin, the Minister for Health and Children, has responsibility for the area of public health which encompasses preparation for dealing with the consequences of biological attack. His Department and its expert advisors have carried out a considerable volume of study and preparation for mitigating the consequences of the use of these horrific weapons. This work is ongoing.
