Bernard J. Durkan
Question:116 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Defence the likely most urgent requirements in the Naval Service at the present time; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [9226/03]
Written Answers - Defence Forces Deployment.
Bernard J. Durkan
Question:117 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Defence if coastal patrols and reconnaissance missions are likely to be introduced or increased in the present situation; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [9227/03]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 116 and 117 together.
The main day-to-day role of the Naval Service is to provide a fishery protection service in accordance with the State's obligations as a member of the European Union. However, as the need arises, Naval Service vessels are also deployed to other duties including security duties, search and rescue, provision of aid to the civil power, particularly in relation to drug interdiction, pollution control, etc.
Fishery protection patrols, which are carried out on a regular and frequent basis, account for over 90% of all Naval Service patrol time, and are directed to all areas of Irish waters as necessary. In the course of these patrols, the Naval Service would also monitor activity generally in Irish waters.
The Garda Síochána has the primary responsibility for law and order, including the protection of the internal security of the State. While the threat of terrorist attacks in this jurisdiction is the subject of continual analysis and assessment by both the Garda Síochána and the Defence Forces, the advice available to me is that there is no current credible threat to Ireland. As such, there is nothing to suggest a need for any targeted increase in operational activity by the Naval Service above its current levels at this time nor has any such increase been requested.