Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 11 May 2004
66 Mr. Gormley asked the Minister for Defence , further to his reply of 25 March 2004 concerning security preparations for the visit of President Bush to Ireland, if the security arrangements have been finalised; if so, the nature of the input from the Defence Forces; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13462/04]
View answer72 Mr. Costello asked the Minister for Defence if the Defence Forces have been asked to provide support for the Garda during the planned visit of President George Bush; the role he expects the Defence Forces to play; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13392/04]
View answerI propose to take Questions Nos. 66 and 72 together.
The 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.
The level and demand for Defence Forces assistance depends on ongoing security assessments undertaken by the Garda. The Defence Forces and the Garda have ongoing consultations on such issues as a matter of course.
The arrangements for the visit of President Bush and the EU-US summit have yet to be finalised and it would be neither productive nor appropriate to speculate on the details at this time. However, the Defence Forces will render such assistance as is deemed necessary and appropriate based on ongoing security assessments.
