Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 5 February 2004
33 Ms Lynch asked the Minister for Defence if he has an estimate of the additional costs likely to accrue to the Defence Forces as a result of additional security duties arising from the Irish Presidency of the EU; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3297/04]
View answerThe Garda Síochána has the primary responsibility for law and order, including the protection of the internal security of the State. Among the roles assigned to the Defence Forces is the provision of aid to the civil power meaning in practice to assist, when requested, the Garda Síochána, which duties include the protection and guarding of vital installations, the provision of certain security escorts etc.
With regard to the EU Presidency, the Defence Forces will continue to render such assistance as may be appropriate when requested by the Garda. The level and demand for Defence Forces assistance will depend on ongoing security assessments undertaken by the Garda. As this threat can vary over time and depending on the circumstances pertaining, it is not possible to predict the additional costs which may arise in respect of security duties undertaken by the Defence Forces during the course of the Presidency.
