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Dáil Éireann debate -
Wednesday, 12 Dec 2007

Vol. 644 No. 1

Other Questions.

Defence Forces Recruitment.

Brian O'Shea

Question:

49 Deputy Brian O’Shea asked the Minister for Defence if his attention has been drawn to claims made at the recent RACO conference that the military medical system is in a state of virtual collapse; the number of qualified medical doctors serving with the Defence Forces; the establishment level for the medical corps; the steps being taken to recruit additional medical personnel; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34147/07]

Noel Coonan

Question:

55 Deputy Noel J. Coonan asked the Minister for Defence if a report on the revised structure for the delivery of medical services for the Defence Forces has been completed; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34437/07]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 49 and 55 together.

As part of the modernisation agenda agreed under Sustaining Progress, a review of the provision of medical services in the Defence Forces has been ongoing. This review, involving the representative associations, has included the level of service to be provided to members of the Defence Forces and the resources required for the delivery of that service.

The review, carried forward into the modernisation agenda agreed under Towards 2016, has already delivered an agreed medical services patients' charter. Work on developing a revised structure for the delivery of medical services for the Defence Forces is ongoing.

The key issue is the acknowledged shortage of medical officers-doctors in the medical corps. The establishment for doctors provided for in the new organisation of the Defence Forces, introduced on foot of the White Paper on Defence, is 47. However, the current strength of medical officers serving in the Defence Forces is 22. There has been recruitment of medical officers each year but the number attracted to work in Defence Forces has just served to address natural wastage.

The problems with recruitment of medical officers into the Defence Forces have endured for some time, despite the concerted efforts of the Department and the Defence Forces to address the root causes. The pay and allowances of doctors and dentists in the Defence Forces were recently increased substantially, in consultation with the Minister for Finance. This linked their pay to public health doctors and dentists. In addition, the Defence Forces have recently undertaken an intensive recruitment campaign. The results of both of these initiatives, however, have been disappointing. Civilian general practitioners are regularly engaged to provide primary care where medical officers are not available.

The development of the capacity of the medical corps also forms part of the programme for Government. I am committed to providing a medical service to meet the needs of the Defence Forces both at home and abroad. I am reviewing progress of the ongoing structural review and considering concrete steps to ensure our commitments in this regard.

I note the Defence Forces have lost a doctor since November as the House was informed last month that the strength of the medical corps was 23.

What is the Minister's view on comments by RACO and its general secretary, Colonel Brian O'Keeffe, that the Department of Defence needs to think outside the box and introduce creative thinking on this matter? RACO also proposed annual check-ups of military personnel should be contracted outside the medical corps.

I am concerned with the drop in medical corps numbers when soon six doctors will be required to accompany the peacekeeping mission to Chad. RACO also gave a startling figure that only one Irish doctor has been recruited in the past five years.

No member of the Defence Forces will go out without medical treatment. That we do not have a full complement in the medical corps means expertise from outside the Defence Forces must be hired, which is done.

There are compelling reasons for the difficulties in recruitment to the medical corps. First, it is not the ideal career opportunity for a doctor as they may not get to widen their medical expertise. One complaint made concerned pay which has been increased substantially by kind permission of the Department of Finance.

The Army is not unique in this regard. Other armies have informed me they have great difficulty in filling their medical corps complements. I agree with Colonel Brian O'Keeffe that we must think outside the box. We are considering engaging consultants to give ideas on progressing the matter.

In the United Kingdom, the army medical corps and the NHS have partially integrated. Specific wards in several hospitals are set aside where army doctors treat military personnel and general patients, allowing them to widen their range of expertise. I am not suggesting this will be the model to follow but such arrangements are being examined.

Doctors in the Army, except when they are abroad, will treat healthy and fit young people, with a small range of ailments. It is known as occupational medicine. We are examining ways of attracting doctors to give them extra skills and qualifications for their time spent in the Army.

Last week the Minister said the complement of the medical corps stood at 21, so it has gone up one this week.

It is a moveable feast.

Of the 22 doctors, what is the breakdown between native Irish and non-national doctors?

The Minister accepts incentives must be given. The greatest incentive would be to provide child care facilities to young doctors. Up to 3,000 military personnel are based in the Curragh and, with decentralisation, another 500 will be located there. However, it has no crèche facility. That is not an incentive to a young married person to join the Defence Forces.

With all due respect, there will not be a flood of doctors into the Army if a crèche is provided in the Curragh.

It is a required facility. It has been ongoing problem.

I do not want to be facetious but it is a deeper problem than that.

The Minister is avoiding it.

I am not avoiding it but it is a deeper problem. It is a problem that has occurred under successive Governments, including that of the Deputy's party, if I can think back long enough to remember when it was last in power.

The Minister is getting narky. This is Deputy Willie O'Dea at his best.

The problem in attracting personnel to the medical corps is not unique to Ireland. We are working on the problem and we will do our utmost to attract more doctors into the Army. While there is nothing wrong with private medical practitioners, we do not want to rely on them.

The numbers are moving between 21, 22 and 23. RACO's figures last month were between 18 and 20. Does the Minister stand over his figure of 22 doctors?

A mechanism often used by State services when short of professionals is to provide university scholarships to attract applicants. An applicant, when qualified, would then give a specific length of service to the State service sponsor. Such a scheme would not require people to contract for life to the Army. With such a contractual arrangement, a certain number of doctors will come on-stream in the Army on an ongoing basis.

I can only stand over the number written. My officials advise me that the present complement is 22. Members of the Army can apply to go to university and enter into their own arrangements to do so. The Deputy's suggestion of attracting individuals who want to study medicine might be a good one and we will put it into the mix.

In response to Deputy Deenihan, I think the figures are 14 national and eight non-national. I will confirm these figures and let the Deputy know.

I wish to ask a final supplementary question. I am disappointed that the Minister trivialised the crèche issue.

That is not a supplementary question.

This is an ongoing problem. A committee is sitting to discuss the provision of a crèche at the Curragh and elsewhere. Can the Minister give us any assurance that the committee will be asked to report as soon as possible? If so, will he provide a crèche? There is one in the Oireachtas. I do not know how much it is used but it is available for us in the Houses. Surely there should be one at the Curragh if the Minister wants to provide an incentive, among the many he will need to provide, to attract people into the military.

I will find out what is happening about the crèche at the Curragh. The increase in the Defence Forces Vote this year was 7%, probably its highest increase in the past 25 years. We are getting a lot of money and spending it to best effect.

It is still under 1% of GDP which it was in our time.

GDP was very small in the Deputy's time.

It is getting smaller.

Departmental Expenditure.

Joan Burton

Question:

50 Deputy Joan Burton asked the Minister for Defence if he will make a statement on the Estimate for his Department for 2008. [34152/07]

The gross total allocation for my Department in 2008 is €1,078 million, comprising €888 million in the defence Vote and €190 million in the Army pensions Vote. This represents an increase of 7% on the 2007 allocation.

Almost 70% of the defence Estimate is expended on the pay and allowances for an average of 10,500 Permanent Defence Force personnel, some 880 civilian employees and approximately 380 Civil Service staff. The Estimate includes additional funding of €37 million for the proposed mission to Chad, the bulk of which will be expended on transport costs. This additional funding will ensure our troops in Chad will have the best possible equipment and facilities in what will be a very challenging environment.

The ongoing investment in modern equipment and facilities for the Defence Forces will continue in 2008. Among the more significant payments expected to be made next year are final payment of €13 million on two AW 139 helicopters, final payment of €5 million on upgrade of Casa maritime aircraft, final payment of €6 million on contract for 25 additional Mowag APCs, €4 million for the purchase of 500 general purpose machine guns and initial down payment on proposed purchase of light tactical armoured vehicles. Over €43 million will be available in 2008 for the upgrade, refurbishment and maintenance of buildings and facilities for the Defence Forces. This will enable the major programme to provide modern accommodation and facilities for the Defence Forces which has been ongoing in recent years to continue in 2008.

The process of acquiring three new replacement vessels for the Naval Service is under way. The evaluation of stage one proposals and the preparation of a detailed specification for the "invitation to tender" stage are in progress, with tenders expected to issue in April 2008 and a contract awarded in late 2008 or early 2009. A token sum of €1 million has been provided in the 2008 Estimate to facilitate a down payment on the first of the new vessels. That will enable us to sign the contract.

Overall, the increased level of resources underlines the Government's commitment to ensuring the modernisation process in defence will continue to make solid progress. The Army, Naval Service and Air Corps will be fully equipped to meet the challenges which lie ahead.

In the Estimates some figures stand out. The reduction in the allocation for consultancy services from €50,000 to €32,000 is welcome. I am concerned, however, about the 17% reduction in the Reserve Defence Force allocation from €12.5 million to €10.5 million. There is an 18% reduction in the figure for compensation from €7.6 million to €6.2 million. There is a 26% increase in costs arising from Ireland's participation in the European Union's Common Security and Defence Policy from €1.2 million to €1.6 million. Will the Minister explain the major reduction in appropriations-in-aid, down from almost €25 million to €10.7 million, a reduction of 57%?

These are estimated figures. On compensation, it is a demand-led scheme. Experience of the past few years has shown us that a provision of €6.2 million will be sufficient but if we have to compensate individuals above that level, a Supplementary Estimate will be required. Last year €12.5 million was provided for the Reserve Defence Force but only €9.5 million was spent. This year we estimate the cost at €10.5 million.

Will the Minister not increase the figure in case he needs more?

Yes, €10.5 million represents an increase on €9.5 million; therefore, we will be spending 10% more. The increase in the contribution to the European Union's Common Security and Defence Policy arises because we are tied into a fixed percentage of the cost of running the agency concerned, which has increased slightly.

The main element of appropriations-in-aid is rebates from the United Nations in respect of overseas missions. We do not expect to receive many such rebates this year because there is a difference between a UN mission, directly organised by the United Nations, and a UN mandated EU mission, for which we receive no rebates, in this instance, the Chad mission.

For what percentage of GDP does the Defence Vote account? I understand it is approximately 0.7%. Not so long ago it was 1%, albeit of a smaller GDP but it was even smaller before we took over.

I do not have the precise figure but will get it for the Deputy. I refer not only to the Vote but also to the other measures in which the Department of Finance has allowed us to engage such as selling off property assets surplus to requirements, the proceeds of which we have reinvested in the defence Vote. We have a slimmed down, highly trained, well equipped Army in comfortable barracks, well used to foreign missions, the pride of the country. If Deputy Deenihan were to study the budget contributions of his colleagues on the Front Bench, he would not agree with increases in expenditure. Deputy Bruton tells us we are running the country into bankruptcy because we are spending too much but the Deputy is suggesting that we spend more.

I am talking about the return.

The Opposition cannot have it both ways.

I am asking about what is provided in the budget.

Do the Estimates provide fully for the figure of €57 million estimated as the cost of the mission to Chad or are we likely to see a Supplementary Estimate at the end of the year, if the mission goes ahead?

The Estimates fully provide for it. We were able to provide €20 million from our own resources. The extra allocation was €37 million.

If the mission does not go ahead, where will the money be spent? Limerick.

We will find a way.

Defence Forces Personnel.

Ulick Burke

Question:

51 Deputy Ulick Burke asked the Minister for Defence if he has considered the request made by RACO at its recent biennial delegate conference that he amend Defence Forces Regulations S6 to provide that the rank of brigadier general would be among those represented by the association; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34431/07]

The Defence (Amendment) Act 1990 and Defence Force Regulations section 6 provide for representative structures for members of the Defence Forces. In accordance with the regulations, the Representative Association of Commissioned Officers, RACO, represents officers of the Permanent Defence Force in respect of the matters specified in the third schedule to the regulations. The ranks involved are colonel, lieutenant-colonel, commandant, captain, lieutenant and second-lieutenant and cadets.

The rates of pay of brigadier general are determined by the Review Body on Higher Remuneration in the Public Sector. The review body is an independent standing body whose primary function is to advise the Government on the general levels of remuneration appropriate to higher public servants, members of the Judiciary, and political officeholders. As the rank of brigadier general is the third highest rank in the Defence Forces, I am satisfied the review body is the appropriate forum for determining the pay rates of brigadier generals.

I have no proposals nor have I received an approach from the general staff to amend the regulations to provide that the rank of brigadier general be amongst those represented by RACO.

There are only nine brigadier generals in the country and they are not represented by any organisation in pay negotiations. I accept the chief of staff and his two assistants, who in a way are Government appointees, would not fall into this category. In the Civil Service assistant secretaries are represented and brigadier general seems to be the only category that is not. Brigadier generals are dependent on the goodwill of the review commission and I see no reason why they should not be represented; the Minister should give consideration to this.

Members of RACO have indicated to me that they would be favourably disposed towards including brigadier generals in their association.

I do not doubt what the Deputy says and if the people involved approach me I will give this matter consideration. The second last report of the higher review body caused distress amongst the general staff and they made their views known forcibly to the body. The review body responded by saying it did not want to be perceived as undervaluing the contribution made by senior Army officers.

The latest report granted a pay increase of 4% to brigadier generals and, in the course of deliberations, the review body evaluated the post of brigadier general. If they wish to change I will be happy to listen to them.

Brigadier general is the highest level of commander in the Defence Forces and they are responsible for training, organisation and the three regions. Brigadier generals may be the most powerful people in the Defence Forces. Given the level a brigadier general occupies the increase mentioned seems very small compared to that recently proposed for Ministers. The Minister should consider allowing brigadier generals be represented by RACO and I will convey the Minister's desire to have the association approach him in this regard.

If the association wishes to have its representation changed it can approach me and I will make the appropriate inquiries.

Regarding Deputy Deenihan's comments on pay rates, it is certain that, like all bodies covered by the higher review group, brigadier generals will be paid immediately and will not see their pay increases deferred. I find the attitude of some Members of this House to independent bodies curious. This morning Deputy Gilmore spoke of an independent body on human rights and suggested the Government must obey it. Everyone feels independent bodies must be obeyed until they recommend certain levels of pay for the Government. At what point do independent bodies cease to be independent?

Is the Minister one of the Cabinet members who agreed with the pay rise?

I do not deny it.

Emergency Planning.

Charlie O'Connor

Question:

52 Deputy Charlie O’Connor asked the Minister for Defence his proposals as chairman of the Government’s task force on emergency planning, for a public information campaign on emergency planning; the form the campaign will take; when it is proposed to run the campaign; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34023/07]

As chairman of the Government task force on emergency planning, I have emphasised the importance of raising public awareness of this issue and the work that is being undertaken by Government Departments and public authorities.

In October last year the Government approved my proposals to implement a public information and awareness campaign on emergency planning and I am pleased to say that preparations are at an advanced stage. I intend to launch the campaign in the early part of 2008.

The campaign will have a number of elements. Its main focus is the publication and distribution to every household in the country of a handbook on emergency planning. This will be the first time that information on all of the State's emergency plans are presented to the public in this way. The handbook will also provide practical advice on how individuals can prepare for some of the more common emergencies and where they can obtain further information.

The distribution of the handbook will be accompanied by an extensive media advertising campaign to let people know what it is about and to reassure them that there is no cause for alarm.

As the Minister knows there is no Army barracks in Tallaght but that does not stop me taking an interest in defence matters. I thank the Minister for his reply and note he mentioned distribution of a handbook.

This question is a good plant.

I am always happy to hear from Deputy Deenihan and it is kind of him to be here, along with the Labour Party spokesman on Defence, for my question.

Is Deputy O'Connor seeking a barracks for Tallaght?

He is not seeking a barracking.

I am always happy to support Ministers.

Will the Deputy refer his contributions through the Chair?

I will and I thank the Leas-Cheann Comhairle for his protection.

What is the timeframe for this campaign and what preparatory work has been done by the Department? Can the Minister tell us what he hopes to achieve through this campaign? Will there be roles in it for other Departments?

I brought this proposal to Government last October and we did some research that came to some startling conclusions. The vast majority of people think we are unprepared for emergencies and an even greater percentage of people would not know what to do in the event of an emergency.

A booklet will be accompanied by an extensive advertising campaign on radio and in newspapers. There will not be television adverts as they can be expensive but the campaign will be very effective. We hope to reassure people and let them know that detailed emergency plans are in place. We want to give ordinary people practical advice on what to do in the event of an emergency and let them know where further information is available.

Other Departments will have a role to play because our emergency response system sees the Departments taking leading roles while the Department of Defence co-ordinates. Getting information and co-operation from other Departments has delayed the advertising campaign but we are now on schedule.

In considering the drafting of the handbook and the advertising, has the Minister taken account of the need to avoid causing panic among the public, not only in Tallaght but in Kerry, Kildare, Limerick, Wexford and throughout the country?

Maybe they need panic buttons.

Tallaght has been mentioned twice in 30 seconds and that must be a record.

I have taken account of the possible panic the Deputy mentioned. This operation has been done in other countries, such as the UK and Australia, and one must be careful with the terminology used and how information to be given is drafted. The objective is to reassure the public rather than cause panic and I hope we achieve this.

Overseas Missions.

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

53 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Defence the number in the proposed deployment of Irish troops overseas on EU or UN missions; the extent of training and the availability of military hardware prior to the commencement of such missions; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34376/07]

Niall Collins

Question:

63 Deputy Niall Collins asked the Minister for Defence when he expects members of the Defence Forces to deploy to Chad; the safeguards and procedures in place to ensure their safety while serving there; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34021/07]

Thomas P. Broughan

Question:

71 Deputy Thomas P. Broughan asked the Minister for Defence if all the security of supplies for Irish troops in the proposed mission to Chad have been addressed; if he has satisfied himself that appropriate supply lines will be in place to ensure the contingent will be able to access safe water, fuel and other crucial supplies; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34149/07]

Joan Burton

Question:

74 Deputy Joan Burton asked the Minister for Defence the arrangements that will be put in place to provide medical services for the contingent of Irish troops due to go to Chad; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34151/07]

Richard Bruton

Question:

76 Deputy Richard Bruton asked the Minister for Defence the expected date for the commencement of the Chad mission; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34428/07]

Barry Andrews

Question:

85 Deputy Barry Andrews asked the Minister for Defence the situation regarding the deployment of members of the Defence Forces as part of EUFORT Chad/RCA; the contacts he has had with his EU counterparts and the operation commander to ensure the necessary equipment and supports are in place; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34032/07]

Thomas P. Broughan

Question:

88 Deputy Thomas P. Broughan asked the Minister for Defence if the budget for the Defence Forces will be adequate to fund the proposed Irish contingent for Chad, without resulting in cutbacks in other areas; the estimated cost of the mission; if additional funding has been sought from the Department of Finance for this purpose; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34150/07]

Liz McManus

Question:

90 Deputy Liz McManus asked the Minister for Defence if he has received a full report on the loss of human life in the battles at Abongouleigne, eastern Chad on 26 November 2007; the implications for the planned Irish contingent in Chad; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34164/07]

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

92 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Defence the position in regard to the proposed deployment of Irish troops to Chad; the expected strength and composition; the availability of adequate supply and transport facilities; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34375/07]

Andrew Doyle

Question:

93 Deputy Andrew Doyle asked the Minister for Defence if it has been confirmed that the EU Mission to Chad will have EU standard medical support as sought by PDFORRA at its recent annual conference. [34423/07]

Liz McManus

Question:

102 Deputy Liz McManus asked the Minister for Defence if he will provide a breakdown of the €57 million required for the Army’s humanitarian mission to Chad; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34165/07]

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

168 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Defence when he expects the deployment of Irish troops to Chad to take place; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34598/07]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 53, 63, 71, 74, 76, 85, 88, 90, 92, 93, 102 and 168 together.

Currently, a total of 414 Defence Forces personnel are serving overseas, full details of which are listed in the accompanying statement which will be available to the House.

Ireland has offered, through the United Nations standby arrangements system, to provide up to 850 military personnel, configured as a light infantry battalion, for overseas service at any one time. This figure equates to some 10% of Ireland's standing Army, excluding reserves, and demonstrates Ireland's commitment to the cause of international peace. This is the maximum sustainable commitment that Ireland can make to overseas peacekeeping operations. There are no plans at this time to increase the level of our commitment to the United Nations standby arrangements system.

Ireland receives requests from time to time in relation to participation in various missions and these are considered on a case-by-case basis.

In response to a request from the EU, the Government, on 20 November 2007, authorised the despatch of a contingent of the Permanent Defence Force for service with the UN mandated EU operation in the Republic of Chad and the Central African Republic. Dáil Éireann approved the necessary enabling motion on 28 November 2007.

It was initially expected that a Defence Forces initial entry force to the new EU mission in Chad, comprising an advance party of approximately 50 personnel of the Army ranger wing and support elements, would deploy to the mission area this month. The main contingent comprising some 400 personnel, which is currently undergoing selection and concentration prior to detailed mission-specific training, was expected to deploy in February or March 2008. However, the deployment of the initial entry force has been deferred until the new year as vital enabling elements, such as helicopters, tactical aircraft and medical support associated with the launch of the operation, are not yet in place. This deferral may have a knock-on effect for the deployment of the main body of the force.

I assure the House that there is no question of the Defence Forces deploying in theatre without the required enablers being in place. The shortfalls in vital key enablers for the mission are being actively examined and addressed by the operation commander in consultation with the European Union Military Committee. As I indicated to the House on 28 November 2007, I expressed my concerns about these shortfalls at a recent Defence Ministers' meeting in Brussels. I urged my EU ministerial colleagues to take another look at the shortfalls and actively to support the mission, thus ensuring it is adequately resourced and capable of fulfilling its mandate.

The current situation demands that all options should be explored in an effort to overcome the capability shortfalls for this mission. This must be done expeditiously to re-enforce the credibility of European security and defence policy, ESDP, as an EU instrument. To this end, I wrote to my EU Defence ministerial colleagues last week appealing to them to consider constructively how they might be able to contribute to the successful launch and operation of this mission without further delay.

I assure the House that our ability to protect the safety of our personnel is of paramount concern when considering any mission. While no absolute guarantees can be given with regard to the safety of troops serving in missions, it is the policy and practice to ensure that Defence Forces personnel are appropriately trained and equipped to carry out their mission. Troops selected for overseas service undergo a rigorous programme of training designed to help them carry out their peacekeeping mission and to provide for their protection. Pre-deployment training is updated in the light of up-to-date threat assessments. Prior to deployment on missions, training packages, including realistic mission readiness exercises, are conducted and validated to ensure units are thoroughly prepared. Defence Forces personnel serving on all overseas missions are equipped with the most modern and effective equipment. This equipment enables troops to carry out the mission assigned, as well as providing the required protection specific to the mission.

A detailed threat assessment and reconnaissance was conducted prior to a decision being taken to participate in the EU mission to Chad. This informed decisions regarding the configuration of the contingent and its armaments and protection. The Irish contingent to be deployed to the new mission will be based on a mechanised infantry battalion group comprising manoeuvre elements and combat support and combat service support elements. Given the nature of the operation and the mission area and environment, the Defence Forces will deploy Mowag APCs and close reconnaissance vehicles, which will provide armoured protection, mobility, firepower and a communications platform.

As regards the security of supplies for Irish troops to be deployed to the mission, the Defence Forces have developed a comprehensive plan of logistics support for the planned deployment. All aspects of the supply chain, including the security of supplies, have been evaluated in the context of the planned theatre of operations and remain a constant planning consideration by the military authorities. All life support issues have been investigated, estimated and planned for. An integrated plan for water, fuel and other commodities is being prepared.

Regarding medical services for the personnel to be deployed to the mission, health care will be provided to EU common standards of health and medical support. All medical units deployed as part of Irish contingents on overseas missions are designed by the director of the Army medical corps based on the requirements of the mission and having regard to the availability of services that may be available from partner nations and other nations contributing troops. The proposed Defence Forces initial entry force, to be deployed in early 2008, will include one medical officer and two medical orderlies. In addition, the Army ranger wing unit will include several qualified medical personnel to augment the medical capability.

The main Irish contingent, to be deployed to the mission area at a later stage, will include a medical unit comprising two medical officers, one dental officer, 11 medical orderlies and one dental surgery assistant. The proposed medical deployment outlined is subject to change depending on the final assessment of the operational environment in which the troops will operate.

Additional information not given on the floor of the House.

It is estimated that the cost to the Defence Vote arising from the Defence Forces participation in this mission for 12 months will be some €57 million, including Ireland's €1.3 million contribution to common costs. The figure also includes costs of deployment of personnel and equipment, rotation and re-supply flights, overseas allowances, ordnance, clothing and catering, purchase of military vehicles, medical costs, communications and information technology, barrack expenses and engineering equipment. Provision to meet the additional costs of the operation has been made in the Defence Vote in the Estimates for 2008.

The Defence Estimate includes additional funding of €37 million for the proposed mission to Chad, the bulk of which will be expended on transport costs. This additional funding will ensure our troops in Chad will have the best possible equipment and facilities in what will be a challenging environment. The ongoing investment in modern equipment and facilities for the Defence Forces will continue in 2008. The major programme to provide modern accommodation and facilities for the Defence Forces, which has been ongoing over recent years, will continue in 2008.

I am aware of reports of clashes that have erupted in eastern Chad since 24 November 2007. I am advised that despite claims by the Chadian army and the rebels, there is no reliable confirmation of casualties. In regard to the threat posed to Irish troops proposed to be deployed as part of the EU force, it is assessed by the military authorities that the recent violence is the result of all sides attempting to influence the situation on the ground prior to the EUFOR deployment. While at least one rebel group, the Union of Forces for Democracy and Development, has declared that it considers itself in a state of war against the French, or any foreign army on Chad's territory, it is thought unlikely it will attempt to engage with EUFOR troops.

I assure the House that ongoing threat assessments are carried out in mission areas. We continually review both personal equipment and force assets to ensure Defence Forces personnel are appropriately equipped to fulfil their roles. I am satisfied that all appropriate security measures are in place to ensure the safety of all Defence Forces personnel serving overseas.

Members of the Permanent Defence Force Serving Overseas as of 07 December 2007

Number

1. UN Missions

(i) UNIFIL (United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon) HQ

7

(ii) UNTSO (United Nations Truce Supervision Organisation) — Israel, Syria and Lebanon

14

(iii) MINURSO (United Nations Mission for the Referendum in Western Sahara)

3

(iv) UNMIK (United Nations Interim Administration Mission in Kosovo)

4

(v) MONUC (United Nations Mission in Democratic Republic of the Congo)

3

(vi) UNOCI (United Nations Mission in Ivory Coast)

1

(vii) UNMIL (United Nations Mission in Liberia) FHQ

1

TOTAL

33

UN Mandated Missions

(viii) EUFOR (EU-led Operation in Bosnia and Herzegovina)

41

(ix) EUFORTCHAD/RCA (EU-led Operation in CHAD and the Central African Republic) HQ

17

(x) KFOR (International Security Presence in Kosovo) Framework Nation

57

KFOR (International Security Presence in Kosovo) HQ

11

KFOR (International Security Presence in Kosovo) 37th Inf Group

204

(xi) ISAF (International Security Assistance Force in Afghanistan)

7

(xii) AMIS (EU support to UN authorised African Union Mission in Sudan)

3

Total number of personnel serving with UN missions

373

2. EU Missions

(i) European Union Monitor Mission (EUMM) to the former Yugoslavia

5

TOTAL NUMBER OF PERSONNEL SERVING WITH EU MISSIONS

5

3. Organisation for Security and Co-operationin Europe (OSCE)

(i) OSCE Mission to Bosnia & Herzegovina

1

(ii) OSCE Mission in Montenegro

1

(iii) OSCE Presence in Albania

2

(iv) OSCE Mission in FRY

2

(v) Staff Officer, Higher Level Planning Group, Vienna

1

Total number of personnel serving OSCE

7

4. EU Military Staff

Brussels

7

New York

1

5. HQ EU Nordic Battlegroup

12

6. Military Representatives/Advisers/Staff

(i) Military Adviser, Permanent Mission to UN, New York

1

(ii) Military Adviser, Irish Delegation to OSCE, Vienna

1

(iii) Military Representatives to EU (Brussels)

4

(iv) Liaison Office of Ireland, NATO/PfP (Brussels)

2

(v) Military Representative to NATO/PfP Co-ordination Cell/Supreme Headquarters Allied Powers Europe (SHAPE), Mons, Belgium

1

TOTAL NUMBER DEFENCE FORCES PERSONNEL SERVING OVERSEAS

414

I thank the Minister for his comprehensive reply. Does he agree that in a deployment of this nature, given the vastness of the area concerned, it would be highly advisable to make available helicopters for the rapid transport of troops and equipment from one area to another? Does he also agree it is absolutely vital in such situations to have adequate communications equipment and adequate numbers deployed to ensure troops are not left isolated or vulnerable. Unfortunate incidents have occurred in the past. Events at Srebrenica, for example, represent a classic case of underdeployment leading to tragedy. Will the Minister confirm that the officer commanding the deployment will be absolutely satisfied in advance that adequate logistical support is in place in terms of the availability of military hardware of all types?

I am pleased to assure Deputy Durkan on those points. I agree that adequate equipment is necessary. As the Deputy observed, the vastness of the area makes air transport necessary, as well as effective communications. Troops can be easily and quickly isolated in a place of this magnitude. It is a hostile environment. I assure the House that the force commander will not deploy unless he is satisfied beyond a shadow of a doubt that sufficient logistical supports are in place.

It is a judgment for the Irish military as to what equipment is supplied with the troops. We will supply a large quantity of Mowag APCs and heavy mobility lift vehicles. We will also supply a large amount of construction equipment because there will be extensive building work to be undertaken, including airports, roads and so on. A detailed specification is available for that. I am glad Deputy Durkan has afforded me the opportunity to assure the House on these matters.

We are correct to highlight the dangers associated with the mission, but we must be mindful not to overstate them and so cause unnecessary stress to the troops who will serve and their families. What reassurance has the Minister received as to the safety of Irish troops who will take part in this mission? What level of pre-deployment training will they receive? Will the Minister indicate the criteria considered before deciding on deployment contingents of the Defence Forces for overseas missions? What are the criteria for selecting troops for such duties?

I assure Deputy Collins that military personnel have travelled to Chad on reconnaissance work. They have studied the environment to ascertain what is required in terms of equipment, transport and communications. These are people of the highest expertise who have organised previous foreign missions. They know what is required and will ensure it is supplied. One cannot offer absolute guarantees but we are extremely mindful of the safety of our troops. I assure the House that everything possible will be done on our side to ensure the troops are entirely safe. I can speak for Lieutenant General Nash in assuring Members that he will not deploy unless the logistical supports that it is incumbent on other EU countries to provide are put in place.

Troops will take part in an intensive period of some ten to 12 weeks' pre-deployment training. Many of these troops have previously served abroad in Liberia or Lebanon and know what is involved. When considering whether to accede to a request for a mission, one of the criteria is the current level of commitment. We have a top level of 850 personnel and that cannot be exceeded. We also consider how well the mission is financed, how it ties in with our foreign policy and whether it has a clear political objective. The main consideration, however, is the risk involved to our troops. That weighs very heavily when we are deciding whether to commit to a mission.

The criteria for selection of personnel would include factors such as seniority, family circumstances, experience abroad and reports from commanding officers. A particular expertise would give personnel an advantage also.

One of the questions in the group referred to the €57 million cost of the mission and if it will be at the expense of any existing activities of the Army. There is an additional sum of €37 million but a €20 million in saving specified. Will the Minister assure us this is a saving that would otherwise be spent on people here rather than coming from cutbacks in other areas?

On the logistical plan, I understand there is only 400 km of roadway in Chad, and I foresee extreme difficulty in keeping lines open. I hope the Ranger wing will plan for a camp when they go to Chad in January but are we getting ahead of ourselves when we speak about being ready to go in when we do not have the experience on the ground of the Ranger wing and the professionals with them? Is there a possibility, in spite of the information held by the Minister, that the mission could be beyond the capability of the supports that may be in place?

We got €37 million extra for the Chad mission and supplied €20 million from within our own resources. If there was no question of us going to Chad we would undoubtedly have found other ways to spend that €20 million. Perhaps we would have got €20 million less from the Department of Finance.

I reassure the Deputy that the amount of money we will spend in upgrading equipment this year, in excess of €30 million, and the amount of money we will spend to upgrade buildings such as barracks and accommodation, at approximately €43 million, will at least equal the figure from last year. It may even exceed that amount so there will be no shortfall in that regard.

There is always a possibility of what the Deputy suggested in his final point and we cannot be completely sure until personnel are in theatre. That is the reason I replied to Deputy Durkan earlier by stating we need good communications and air support to take people out of danger quickly if the need arises.

I am anxious to allow questions from two more Deputies before the time concludes. I will allow questions from Deputies Deenihan and Barry Andrews.

I read that Lieutenant General Nash may retire in May. Will the Minister confirm he will be there for the duration of the mission? Is there a possibility the duration of the mission could be extended after a year if so demanded?

With regard to water supply, I received reports from people who served in Liberia that the water supplied there by the United Nations was totally inadequate. The Swedes had a different system and I understand the Irish military personnel took water from the Swedes. Although the tents used in Liberia were air-conditioned, they were still very uncomfortable. I know people who lost a stone and a half or two stone in weight while there because of the humidity. Being in theatre in the middle of Africa will be much more challenging than Liberia.

I understand the Swedes had a much more comfortable accommodation unit. Is there a chance the type of accommodation used by personnel will be reviewed? Surely we are not taking the same tents to Chad?

The EU reform treaty referendum will come up next year and as a member of the Joint Committee on European Affairs I have discussed the importance of the EU having some kind of shot in the arm in terms of public relations. Is the Minister cognisant of the importance of this mission in that if it is successful and effective, those of us advocating the reform treaty can indicate it as an example of the EU being effective? God knows what happened in Rwanda did not reflect any glory on anybody in this part of the world. Does the Minister agree that the mission is important in that respect?

I will answer the specific points raised by Deputy Deenihan in the first instance. I assure the Deputy that although Lieutenant General Nash's formal retirement date is in May, he is to be appointed for the duration of Ireland's participation in the mission. The initial deployment is for a year but it may be extended. That will be a decision for Government when we come to the end of that year.

On the issue of tents and the conditions, I was in Liberia twice and I assure the Deputy it was pretty warm outside the tent, whatever about inside the tent. We have learned certain lessons. There is also provision for bottled water to back up the water supply and we are working on that issue.

In response to the comments of Deputy Barry Andrews, it will be devastating for the credibility of the EU if we cannot put the mission together. A couple of months ago at a defence ministers' meeting in Brussels we agreed to put in place a system whereby up to 90,000 troops can be deployed by the EU at three months notice with sufficient back-up. If, after three or four months, we cannot deploy 4,000 troops with sufficient back-up, I cannot see how we will be in a position to deploy 90,000 troops in two years. It will have a devastating effect on the credibility of the EU if we cannot quickly put the mission together.

Written Answers follow Adjournment Debate.

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