Dáil Éireann debate -
Wednesday, 3 Dec 2003

Vol. 576 No. 2

Written Answers. - EU Presidency.

John Gormley

Question:

190 Mr. Gormley asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the Government's plans to ensure that visiting politicians are accompanied by fleets of outriders while on visits during the Irish EU Presidency; the amount this service will cost; his views on whether it is entirely necessary in all cases; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29473/03]

Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform (Mr. McDowell)

The escort duties required for visiting politicians during Ireland's Presidency of the European Union will be addressed by the Garda authorities having regard to, inter alia, the office held by the politician in question and an assessment of the security situation pertaining at that time.

In the case of Ministers the Garda authorities will provide escorts appropriate to the circumstances pertaining at the time, including, where required, motorcycle outriders.

The costs associated with these escort duties will only be known when the total number and nature of the escorts required is determined.