Skip to main content
Normal View

Tuesday, 18 Jun 2013

Written Answers Nos. 1-35

Overseas Missions

Questions (21)

Seán Crowe

Question:

21. Deputy Seán Crowe asked the Minister for Defence if a decision has been made regarding the request from the UN to deploy observers to the UN Truce Supervision Organisation in the Middle East to the headquarters of the UNDOF in Syria. [29109/13]

View answer

Written answers

In April 2013 a request was received from the United Nations to deploy additional UN Military Observers to the United Nations Truce Supervision Organisation in the Middle East to the Headquarters of the United Nations Disengagement Observer Force (UNDOF) in Syria. This request is currently receiving consideration and a decision is expected shortly. In response to a separate request from the United Nations to deploy personnel to the headquarters of UNDOF in Syria, three personnel are expected to deploy to the mission shortly. A fourth member of the Permanent Defence Force will deploy to the mission in the coming weeks.

European Council Meetings

Questions (22)

Seán Fleming

Question:

22. Deputy Sean Fleming asked the Minister for Defence if he will provide a report on the seminar on the European Council on Defence 2013 held in Dublin Castle on 17 May; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29086/13]

View answer

Written answers

The European Council meeting in December next will include, for the first time in five years, a thematic discussion on defence issues. The European Council will discuss three clusters of issues. These are (a) increasing the effectiveness, visibility and impact of CSDP; (b) enhancing the development of defence capabilities; and, (c) strengthening Europe’s defence industry. As part of Ireland’s Presidency of the European Council, I hosted a seminar in Dublin Castle on 17th May, 2013, to discuss these issues. The seminar formed an integral part of the preparatory process of developing the agenda for the European Council discussion, with presentations from the European External Action Service, the European Defence Agency, the European Commission, Member States, academia and industry. In my own address, I underlined the importance of this Council meeting and the need for clarity and consensus at EU level to ensure that the EU can effectively respond to emerging international crises. I pointed out that achieving the EU’s ambition in Common Security and Defence Policy requires a greater willingness amongst Member States to coordinate their efforts, rather than continuing to act individually. There is also a need to ensure that the Union has the requisite resources and military capabilities, able and willing to effectively respond to emerging international crises that could ultimately have an adverse effect on the EU and on the security of our States and our citizens. Having capabilities is one thing, but as I said at the seminar, the political will to deploy them is a key and missing component, which Heads of State and Government will need to address in December. I also pointed to the important role which the Defence Industry plays in support of jobs, growth, leading edge technology and innovation and, with a particular focus on our own national capacity, the contribution which SMEs can make in this regard. Contributors and participants had the opportunity to consider this and to debate the issues across the three clusters mentioned above.

Defence Forces Personnel

Questions (23)

Robert Troy

Question:

23. Deputy Robert Troy asked the Minister for Defence if he will confirm whether Defence Forces personnel face a downgrade and possible dismissal if they are injured while taking part in leisure activities. [29104/13]

View answer

Written answers

The maintenance of a cadre of personnel capable of meeting the physical demands of a career in the Defence Forces is a key human resources requirement. The medical classification of all personnel is kept under review and where a person is confirmed as being unfit for service with the Defence Forces, action is initiated towards retirement, relinquishment of commission or discharge, as the case may be. The circumstances in which an injury occurs, be it while taking part in leisure activities or otherwise, are not relevant to and play no part in the medical classification assigned. In the context of the roles assigned by Government to the Defence Forces, military medical services and facilities exist to maintain the health of Defence Forces members, and to support them in their operational and overseas activities. In this regard the focus of the military medical services is on primary care, occupational medicine, acute trauma management, preventative medical programmes and field medical training.

Defence Forces Reserve Issues

Questions (24)

Dessie Ellis

Question:

24. Deputy Dessie Ellis asked the Minister for Defence if he has met with representatives of the Reserve Defence Forces or representative associations to discuss their concerns regarding the recent changes to the Reserve Defence Forces. [29122/13]

View answer

Written answers

Since I accepted the Report on the Value for Money Review of the Reserve Defence Force (RDF) which identified the need for reform I have not received a request for a meeting with the Reserve Defence Forces Representative Association (RDFRA). Should such a request be received I would, of course, give it due consideration. The major re-organisation of the RDF currently underway is being overseen by a High Level Implementation Group comprising senior civil and Military Management of the Department of Defence and the Defence Forces. The Group, which meets on a weekly basis, has been planning and implementing the recommended changes and a new “Single Force” structure is now in place which has dovetailed with the re-organisation of the Permanent Defence Force (PDF).

RDFRA has had a significant input into the change process for the Reserve. A series of bi-lateral meetings of the Department of Defence and the Defence Forces commenced, and are continuing, on a regular basis with RDFRA. These meetings, which are chaired by the Deputy Chief of Staff (Support), are also attended by Military personnel and Departmental staff. The meetings afford RDFRA an opportunity to raise issues they may have in relation to the re-organisation of the Reserve. Similar meetings were held with the Representative Association of Commissioned Officers (RACO) and the Permanent Defence Force Other Ranks Representative Association (PDFORRA) at which they were afforded the opportunity to raise issues they had in connection with the PDF Cadre support staff in relation to the re-organisation of the Reserve.

I am advised by the Military Authorities that the Deputy Chief of Staff (Support) also attended the RDF Special Delegate Conference, in March 2013, at which he addressed a wide variety of issues raised by their members in relation to the re-organisation of the RDF. A Seminar is to be held on 29 June next in the Defence Forces Training Centre, Curragh Camp. This is being held for RDF Unit Commanders in order to afford them the opportunity to discuss any concerns they may have in relation to the re-organisation.

In addition, there have been on-going briefings to the Reserve Defence Force by relevant Military Personnel in relation to the re-organisation of the Reserve.

I am satisfied that there are sufficient and robust systems in place within the Defence Organisation to ensure that issues of concern to members of the Reserve Defence Force are brought to my attention, as appropriate.

Naval Service Operations

Questions (25)

Dessie Ellis

Question:

25. Deputy Dessie Ellis asked the Minister for Defence the role of the Naval Service in fishery protection operations in the past year; and if there are any plans to increase same. [29121/13]

View answer

Written answers

The primary day-to-day tasking of the Naval Service, as provided in the White Paper on Defence (2000), is to provide a fishery protection service in accordance with national legislation and the State’s obligations as a member of the European Union. In its fishery protection role, the Naval Service is committed to having at least three vessels on patrol within the Irish Exclusive Economic Zone at any one time. Under the Sea Fisheries and Maritime Jurisdiction Act, 2006, the Naval Service is empowered to board and inspect vessels and their cargos, and when necessary to formally detain vessels and direct them to port for arrest by An Garda Síochána.

In 2012, the Naval Service carried out a total of 1,258 patrol days and undertook 1,329 boardings of vessels, issued 41 warnings and detained 20 vessels. In addition, the Air Corps’ CASA Maritime Patrol aircraft conducted 241 missions throughout the year. The Air Corps operates closely with Naval Service vessels at sea to promote compliance with national and EU fisheries legislation.

In order to achieve compliance with quota and other conservation legislation under the Common Fisheries Policy, Naval Service fisheries protection operations and priorities are agreed each year between the Sea Fisheries Protection Authority (SFPA) and the Naval Service. For 2013, the Naval Service is committed to 1,267 patrol days whilst the Air Corps will carry out 300 maritime air patrols. The role of the Naval Service and the Air Corps in this regard is coordinated by the Fisheries Monitoring Centre (FMC) which is based in the Naval Headquarters at Haulbowline.

My Department is currently in the process of entering into a renewed Service Level Agreement with the SFPA which will help to further improve co-ordination and collaboration in relation to this important role for the Naval Service.

The Naval Service is currently equipped with a total of eight patrol vessels. In the near future, two of the oldest vessels will be replaced with two new patrol vessels which will be delivered in early 2014 and 2015 respectively. Together with the refurbishment of other vessels in the fleet, this will help to ensure that the Naval Service can maintain its current outputs and meet all agreed targets.

Irish Red Cross Governance

Questions (26)

Dara Calleary

Question:

26. Deputy Dara Calleary asked the Minister for Defence his plans to reform the Red Cross; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29078/13]

View answer

Written answers

Pursuant to the Red Cross Act of 1938, the Irish Red Cross Society was established by Government Order in 1939 as an independent charitable body corporate with full power to manage and administer its own affairs. Since 1939, the relevant Establishment Order had undergone piecemeal changes only but, in April of last year, I received Government approval to make substantial changes to the 1939 Order. These represented the most wide ranging and fundamental set of changes to have occurred since the establishment of the Society. One of the key changes made was a substantial reduction in the number of Government nominees to the Society’s General Assembly; from not less than one-third of its composition to not more than 10%. Furthermore, the legislation was also amended to provide that the Chairperson of the Society is now elected by the Society itself, in accordance with its own Rules and Constitution, rather than by the President. In tandem with the Government’s initiative in amending the legislation, the Society itself made a number of very progressive changes to its Constitution and Rules. I believe that the Society now has in place a 21st century corporate governance framework that meets the rigorous standards set for good governance internationally by the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) and the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC).

There is clearly a strong impetus for change within the Society itself and whilst a lot of important initiatives have been taken place over the past two years, these have tended, necessarily, to be focused on Governance reform, the overhaul of the Society’s financial management systems and reporting processes, and a revision of its Operating Policies and Procedures. I am pleased to note that this work is substantially complete and the attention of the Society has now turned to addressing other strategic challenges such as the development of a resilient and reliable funding base, more dynamic management of resources and the development of organisational structures that will enable the Society to deliver its services more effectively to its beneficiaries, at home and abroad. I am satisfied that this phase of the Society’s reform is now gathering momentum and I understand that the Board of Directors has recently set progress milestones for itself to ensure that it remains on course for completion by the middle of next year.

Finally, it is important that I also mention the commitment made in the Programme for Government for the initiation of a detailed legal review of the basis, structures and governance of the Red Cross in Ireland to improve its functioning in the light of changing circumstances. I can confirm that my Department has commenced work on the review and I anticipate that this will result in a Red Cross Act (Amendment) Bill during the lifetime of this Government.

Air Ambulance Service Provision

Questions (27, 44)

Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin

Question:

27. Deputy Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin asked the Minister for Defence when the review of the Air Corps air ambulance service will be published. [29114/13]

View answer

Denis Naughten

Question:

44. Deputy Denis Naughten asked the Minister for Defence his plans, if any, to expand the role of the Air Corps air ambulance service; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29072/13]

View answer

Written answers

I propose to take Questions Nos. 27 and 44 together.

On June 4th last year a twelve-month pilot Emergency Aeromedical Support (EAS) service, supported by the Air Corps, commenced operating out of Custume Barracks, Athlone. The service was established by agreement between my Department and the Department of Health to assess the level and type, if any, of dedicated emergency aeromedical support needed to assist the National Ambulance Service, primarily in the west of Ireland, for certain types of patient, particularly in light of the requirements of the HSE Clinical Care Programmes such as Acute Coronary Syndrome and Stroke.

A review of the pilot service is currently being finalised by an Audit and Evaluation Group established under the agreement. A Report, with recommendations, will be submitted for consideration by my colleague, the Minister for Health, shortly. Following a recent request from the Minister for Health, I have agreed to extend the Air Corps’ participation in the pilot for a period of up to three months in order to allow him an opportunity to give consideration to the Report.

The Air Corps will continue to operate the EAS service during the period of the extension pending consideration by the Minister for Health of the recommendations contained in the Report.

Defence Forces Equipment

Questions (28)

Éamon Ó Cuív

Question:

28. Deputy Éamon Ó Cuív asked the Minister for Defence if he is satisfied that the Defence Forces mission to Lebanon has been supplied with apparel appropriate to the local environment; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29097/13]

View answer

Written answers

The acquisition of clothing and equipment for the Defence Forces remains a focus for me as Minister for Defence. The Deputy can be assured that I am minded to ensure that modern and effective clothing and equipment is available for our troops in overseas peace support operations. In this regard, the personal equipment, which the individual soldier has at his/her disposal in Lebanon and on other overseas missions is second to none and compares very favourably with the equipment in use by other countries. The military authorities have advised me that clothing and kit issued to Defence Forces personnel serving in Lebanon is of the highest quality and fit for purpose. I have also been advised that the Defence Forces issue a comprehensive set of clothing to each member of the Defence Forces which is designed to cope with a wide range of weather conditions both at home and overseas. Additional supplementary clothing and footwear may be issued where extreme conditions are to be encountered. I am advised that the Defence Forces are satisfied that the current clothing arrangements are sufficient for the requirements of the Defence Forces.

The Defence Forces authorities have also assured me that appropriate force protection assets and capabilities have been deployed to operate in the current and future environment in Lebanon.

In addition, in recent years, significant work has been carried out on the acquisition of an Integrated Protection and Load Carrying System for individual soldiers. This equipment is top of the range. The system includes Body Armour, Helmets, Back Packs (Rucksacks) and Battle Vests. The Battle Vests are used for the carriage of essential items such as ammunition, personal radio and water.

Overseas Missions

Questions (29)

Andrew Doyle

Question:

29. Deputy Andrew Doyle asked the Minister for Defence the work that has been undertaken by the 108th infantry battalion of the Irish Defence Forces that are currently deployed in Lebanon serving with the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon since their arrival; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [28710/13]

View answer

Written answers

The United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) mission is the main overseas mission in which Defence Forces personnel are currently deployed. The 108th Infantry Battalion, comprising some 337 personnel, was deployed to UNIFIL in May 2013 when it replaced personnel of the 107th Infantry Battalion. The Irish Battalion has been working alongside a contingent of 170 personnel of the Finnish Armed Forces as part of a joint Irish/Finnish Battalion. A further 16 Irish personnel are deployed to the Force Headquarters in Naquora and 8 personnel at the UNIFIL Sector West headquarters in Shama. The Irish/Finnish Battalion conducts operational tasks on a daily basis, which include the provision of security, vehicle and foot patrols, checkpoints, establishing and occupying temporary observation posts and liaison/engagement with local leaders. Joint operations are conducted with units of the Lebanese Armed Forces deployed in the UNIFIL area of operations. Irish and Finnish troops also occupy two forward static UN posts on the Blue Line separating Lebanon and Israel.

The security situation in the area in which the Irish/Finnish Battalion operates remains calm but increasingly unstable due to domestic and international factors largely stemming from the spillover effects of the Syrian crisis. The Battalion implements Force Protection measures appropriate to the prevailing operational and security developments in the region.

Ireland currently holds command of the joint Irish/Finnish Battalion. Finland, in accordance with agreements entered into on the deployment of the joint battalion, will assume command of the joint battalion in November 2013. At that stage, the Irish contribution to the Finnish/Irish Battalion will reduce from 337 to approximately 171 Defence Forces personnel.

Defence Forces Medicinal Products

Questions (30, 48)

Seán Crowe

Question:

30. Deputy Seán Crowe asked the Minister for Defence his plans to cease the prescribing of lariam to Irish troops deployed in malarial zones. [29110/13]

View answer

Thomas P. Broughan

Question:

48. Deputy Thomas P. Broughan asked the Minister for Defence if he is satisfied with the continued use of the anti-malarial drug lariam for members of the Defence Forces serving in certain locations overseas in view of numerous reports of the drug's adverse effects on the mental well-being of some persons who have taken the drug, including the report contained in the "Prime Time Investigates" programme that was broadcast on Wednesday, 29 May 2013; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [28708/13]

View answer

Written answers

I propose to take Questions Nos. 30 and 48 together.

Malaria is a serious disease that kills approximately 1 million people per year in sub-Saharan Africa alone. It is a serious threat to any military force operating in the area. The anti-malaria regime in place in the Defence Forces – including the use of Lariam – has worked. In the decade of deployment to sub-Saharan Africa by the Defence Forces, not a single member of the Defence Forces has died from malaria and there are only three documented cases of personnel getting malaria.

The Irish Medicines Board (IMB) is the statutory body that regulates medicines available in Ireland. I am advised that the three anti-malarial medications licensed by the IMB – Lariam (mefloquine), Malarone and Doxycycline – can all have significant side effects. To assert that any one is automatically a more effective or safer alternative to the others is a grossly misleading oversimplification. Each of the three drugs has been used by the Defence Forces, depending on individual circumstances including the type of malaria in the destination, the duration of travel, etc.

I am further advised that the Defence Forces are fully aware of the range of reported side effects attaching to all anti-malarial medications. Protocols are in place to control the risk of side effects in individuals.

Lariam is one of the most effective medications for protection against the type of malaria prevalent in sub-Saharan Africa.

Up to September 2012, Malarone was only licensed for up to 28 days continuous use and was not an option as the usual duration of deployment for the Defence Forces is 6 months. The 28-day limit was removed in September 2012. However, there is limited evidence as to the safety and effectiveness of Malarone usage for longer periods. The position is currently being reviewed by the Defence Forces’ Medical Corps.

I have had the various allegations surrounding the use of Lariam investigated thoroughly and have obtained the advice of leading medical experts, who concur with the prescribing practices followed by the Defence Forces.

Lariam must remain in the formulary of medication prescribed by the Medical Corps for Defence Forces personnel on appropriate overseas missions, particularly those in sub-Saharan Africa, to ensure that our military personnel can have effective protection from the very serious risks posed by this highly dangerous disease.

Ministerial Transport

Questions (31)

Thomas Pringle

Question:

31. Deputy Thomas Pringle asked the Minister for Defence if he will outline his Department's role in the implementation of the new code of practice for the use of the Government jet in terms of the ministerial air transport service; if he will outline in tabular format the average hourly costs, as well as the statistics on the use of the service by each travelling Minister and the Taoiseach, including date of travel, destination, ministerial time on-board and the number of passengers travelling for 2012-2013. [29125/13]

View answer

Written answers

In the Programme for Government a commitment was given to introduce a new code of practice for the use of the Ministerial Air Transport Service ensuring transparent and cost effective travel. The Department of the Taoiseach accepted lead responsibility for this commitment with my Department and the Defence Forces having a contributory role in its implementation. In line with this commitment, information relating to the Ministerial Air Transport Service is now published on my Department’s website and this information is updated on a monthly basis.

My Department follows the normal practice in the aviation business of costing aircraft by reference to the cost per flying hour under each of two headings as set out as follows:

- The direct cost, which includes costs which are additional to those associated with having the aircraft and which only arise when the aircraft is flown including maintenance, fuel and support services; and

- The total cost, which is the direct cost plus the costs associated with having the aircraft, including depreciation and personnel costs.

For clarity, an additional column has been included in the table showing the cost associated with having the aircraft regardless of whether it is flown.

Costs per Aircraft per flying hour

-

Average Associated Cost of having the aircraft per Hour €

Average Direct Cost Per Hour €

Average Total Cost Per Hour €

Gulfstream

520

3,270

3,790

Learjet

2,260

1,940

4,200

The statistics on the use of the service by each travelling Minister and the Taoiseach for 2012 and up to the end of May, 2013 are set out as follows.

2012-2013 MATS Statistics

Learjet 2012

Date

Return Date

Min.Time on Board

Route

Department

Passengers

11/01/2012

12/01/2012

300

Baldonnel - Vienna - Baldonnel

Tánaiste (Foreign Affairs)

Tánaiste plus 5

18/01/2012

18/01/2012

250

Baldonnel - Berlin - Baldonnel

Finance

Minister plus 6

23/01/2012

24/01/2012

250

Baldonnel - Brussels - Frankfurt - Baldonnel

Finance

Minister plus 6

26/01/2012

29/01/2012

725

Baldonnel - Naples - Tel Aviv - Naples - Baldonnel

Tánaiste (Foreign Affairs)

Tánaiste plus 6

09/02/2012

09/02/2012

180

Baldonnel - Brussels - Baldonnel

Finance

Minister plus 3

20/02/2012

21/02/2012

180

Baldonnel - Brussels - Baldonnel

MOS Finance

MOS plus 4

24/02/2012

24/02/2012

385

Baldonnel - Tunis - Baldonnel

Tánaiste (Foreign Affairs)

Tánaiste plus 3

08/03/2012

09/03/2012

180

Baldonnel - Brussels - Baldonnel

Environment, Community & Local Government

Minister  plus 5

12/03/2012

13/03/2012

180

Baldonnel - Brussels - Baldonnel

Finance

Minister plus 3

29/03/2012

30/03/2012

240

Baldonnel - Copenhagen - Baldonnel

Finance

Minister plus 6

23/04/2012

23/04/2012

200

Baldonnel - Luxembourg - Baldonnel

Tánaiste (Foreign Affairs)

Tánaiste plus 4

01/05/2012

02/05/2012

180

Baldonnel - Brussels - Baldonnel

Finance

Minister plus 4

06/05/2012

07/05/2012

330

Baldonnel - Warsaw - Baldonnel

Finance

Minister plus 4

14/05/2012

15/05/2012

180

Baldonnel - Brussels - Baldonnel

Finance

Minister plus 5

21/06/2012

22/06/2012

200

Baldonnel - Luxembourg - Baldonnel

Finance/Health

Minister x 2 plus 5

06/09/2012

08/09/2012

650

Baldonnel - Northolt - Naples - Paphos - Naples - Baldonnel

Tánaiste (Foreign Affairs)

Tánaiste plus 5

01/10/2012

01/10/2012

180

Baldonnel - Brussels - Baldonnel

Environment, Community & Local Government

Minister plus 3

08/10/2012

09/10/2012

200

Baldonnel - Luxembourg - Baldonnel

Finance

Minister plus 3

14/10/2012

15/10/2012

200

Baldonnel - Luxembourg - Baldonnel

Tánaiste (Foreign Affairs) / MOS European Affairs

Tánaiste, MOS plus 4

25/10/2012

26/10/2012

200

Baldonnel - Luxembourg - Baldonnel

Justice, Equality & Law Reform

Minister plus 6

05/11/2012

07/11/2012

700

Baldonnel - Naples - Larnaca - Naples - Baldonnel

Public Expenditure & Reform

Minister plus 4

12/11/2012

13/11/2012

180

Baldonnel - Brussels - Baldonnel

Finance

Minister plus 3

18/11/2012

19/11/2012

180

Baldonnel - Brussels - Baldonnel

Defence

Minister plus 4

20/11/2012

21/11/2012

180

Baldonnel - Brussels - Baldonnel

Finance

Minister plus 3

26/11/2012

27/11/2012

180

Baldonnel - Brussels - Baldonnel

Finance

Minister plus 4

03/12/2012

04/12/2012

180

Baldonnel - Brussels - Baldonnel

Finance

Minister plus 5

06/12/2012

07/12/2012

180

Baldonnel - Brussels - Baldonnel

Justice & Equality / Enterprise, Jobs & Innovation / Health

Minister x 3 plus 6

10/12/2012

11/12/2012

180

Baldonnel - Brussels - Baldonnel

Tánaiste (Foreign Affairs)

Tánaiste plus 5

12/12/2012

13/12/2012

180

Baldonnel - Brussels - Baldonnel

Finance

Minister plus 4

Gulfstream IV 2012

Date

Return Date

Min. Time on Board

Route

Department

Passengers

12/01/2012

12/01/2012

120

Baldonnel - Northolt - Baldonnel

An Taoiseach

Taoiseach plus 8

25/01/2012

27/01/2012

240

Baldonnel - Zurich - Baldonnel

An Taoiseach

Taoiseach plus 8

30/01/2012

30/01/2012

180

Baldonnel - Brussels - Baldonnel

An Taoiseach / MOS Taoiseach

Taoiseach, MOS plus 11

08/02/2012

09/02/2012

790

Baldonnel - Teteboro - Whiteplains - Teteboro - Dublin

An Taoiseach / Enterprise/Trade & Innovation

Taoiseach, Minister plus 11

15/02/2012

17/02/2012

835

Baldonnel - Teteboro - White Plains - Teteboro - Boston - Baldonnel

An Taoiseach

Taoiseach plus 9

23/02/2012

24/02/2012

385

Baldonnel - Berlin - Rome - Baldonnel

An Taoiseach

Taoiseach plus 7

29/02/2012

02/03/2012

180

Baldonnel - Brussels - Baldonnel

An Taoiseach / Finance / MOS Taoiseach

Taoiseach, Minister, MOS plus 9

15/03/2012

21/03/2012

1050

Baldonnel - Chicago - Southbend - Whiteplains - Washington - Baldonnel

An Taoiseach

Taoiseach plus 14

12/03/2012

12/03/2012

120

Baldonnel - Northolt - Baldonnel

An Taoiseach

Taoiseach plus 8

26/04/2012

27/04/2012

200

Baldonnel - Luxembourg - Baldonnel

Agriculture, Marine & Food / Justice & Equality

Minister x 2 plus 12

23/05/2012

24/05/2012

180

Baldonnel - Brussels - Baldonnel

An Taoiseach / Tánaiste (Foreign Affairs & Trade)

Taoiseach, Tánaiste plus 10

11/06/2012

14/06/2012

840

Baldonnel - Yerevan - Tbilisi - Batumi - Baku - Baldonnel

Tánaiste (Foreign Affairs & Trade)

Tánaiste plus 13

22/06/2012

22/06/2012

185

Baldonnel - Edinburgh - Cork - Baldonnel

An Taoiseach / Communications, Energy & Natural Resources

Taoiseach, Minister plus 10

25/06/2012

25/06/2012

200

Baldonnel - Luxembourg - Baldonnel

Tánaiste (Foreign Affairs & Trade)

Tánaiste plus 6

28/06/2012

29/06/2012

180

Baldonnel - Brussels - Baldonnel

An Taoiseach / Tánaiste (Foreign Affairs & Trade) / MOS Taoiseach

Taoiseach, Tánaiste, MOS plus 11

09/07/2012

11/07/2012

680

Baldonnel - Brussels - Larnaca - Baldonnel

Finance/Health

Minister x 2 plus 7

17/07/2012

17/07/2012

210

Baldonnel - Frankfurt - Baldonnel

Finance

Minister plus 6

23/07/2012

24/07/2012

495

Baldonnel - Berlin - Rome - Budapest - Baldonnel

Agriculture, Marine & Food

Minister plus 6

27/07/2012

28/07/2012

120

Baldonnel - Northolt - Baldonnel

An Taoiseach

Taoiseach plus 5

11/09/2012

15/09/2012

775

Baldonnel - Paris - Berlin - Rome - Larnaca - Baldonnel

Finance

Minister plus 10

21/09/2012

22/09/2012

340

Baldonnel - Rome - Baldonnel

An Taoiseach

Taoiseach plus 6

03/10/2012

03/10/2012

180

Baldonnel - Brussels - Baldonnel

An Taoiseach / Tánaiste (Foreign Affairs & Trade) / Finance / Public Expenditure & Reform / Enterprise, Jobs & Innovation / Social Protection / Communications, Energy & Natural Resources / Environment, Community & Local Government / Agriculture, Food & Marine / Transport, Tourism & Sport / MOS European Affairs

Taoiseach, Tánaiste, Minister x 7, MOS plus 9

09/10/2012

09/10/2012

190

Baldonnel - Paris - Baldonnel

Tánaiste (Foreign Affairs & Trade)

Tánaiste plus 5

11/10/2012

14/10/2012

905

Baldonnel - Philadelphia - Cleveland - Knock - Baldonnel

An Taoiseach

Taoiseach plus 8

18/10/2012

19/10/2012

180

Baldonnel - Brussels - Baldonnel

An Taoiseach / Tánaiste / MOS European Affairs

Taoiseach, Tánaiste, MOS plus 12

22/10/2012

22/10/2012

190

Baldonnel - Paris - Baldonnel

An Taoiseach / MOS Food, Horticulture & Food Safety

Taoiseach, MOS plus 8

25/10/2012

26/10/2012

250

Baldonnel - Berlin - Baldonnel

Tánaiste (Foreign Affairs & Trade)

Tánaiste plus 8

01/11/2012

01/11/2012

250

Baldonnel - Berlin - Baldonnel

An Taoiseach

Taoiseach plus 8

07/11/2012

08/11/2012

395

Baldonnel - Budapest - Vienna - Berlin - Baldonnel

An Taoiseach

Taoiseach plus 7

19/11/2012

20/11/2012

180

Baldonnel - Brussels - Baldonnel

Tánaiste (Foreign Affairs & Trade) / MOS European Affairs

Tánaiste, MOS plus 10

22/11/2012

23/11/2012

180

Baldonnel - Brussels - Baldonnel

An Taoiseach / Tánaiste (Foreign Affairs & Trade) / Agriculture, Food & Marine / MOS European Affairs

Taoiseach, Tánaiste, Minister, MOS plus 12

26/11/2012

26/11/2012

100

Baldonnel - Cardiff - Baldonnel

An Taoiseach / Children & Youth Affairs

Taoiseach, Minister plus 8

28/11/2012

29/11/2012

180

Baldonnel - Brussels - Baldonnel

Agriculture, Food & Marine / Enterprise, Jobs & Innovation

Minister x2 plus 9

10/12/2012

10/12/2012

260

Baldonnel - Oslo - Baldonnel

An Taoiseach

Taoiseach plus 6

13/12/2012

14/12/2012

180

Baldonnel - Brussels - Baldonnel

An Taoiseach / MOS European Affairs

Taoiseach, MOS plus 10

16/12/2012

17/12/2012

180

Baldonnel - Brussels - Baldonnel

Tánaiste (Foreign Affairs & Trade) / MOS European Affairs

Tánaiste, MOS plus 6

20/12/2012

20/12/2012

180

Baldonnel - Brussels - Dublin

Communications, Energy & Natural Resources

Minister plus 9

Learjet 2013

Departure date

Return date

Ministerial time on board (Minutes)

Route

Department

Passengers

15/01/2013

16/01/2013

210

Baldonnel - Strasbourg - Baldonnel

An Taoiseach

Taoiseach Plus 6

16/01/2013

17/01/2013

250

Baldonnel - Strasbourg - Paris - Baldonnel

Agriculture, Marine & Food

Minister Plus 5

23/01/2013

25/01/2013

240

Baldonnel - Zurich - Basel-Milhouse - Zurich - Baldonnel

An Taoiseach / Finance

Taoiseach , Minister Plus 6

22/01/2013

22/01/2013

180

Baldonnel - Brussels - Baldonnel

An Tánaiste (DFAT)/ Finance / Public Expenditure & Reform / MOS Public Expenditure

Tánaiste, Minister x 3 , MOS Plus 8

20/01/2013

20/01/2013

90

Baldonnel - Brussels - Baldonnel

Finance / MOS Public Expenditure

Minister, MOS Plus 5

28/01/2013

28/01/2013

180

Baldonnel - Brussels - Baldonnel

Communications, Energy & Natural Resources

Minister Plus 3

03/02/2013

04/02/2013

180

Baldonnel - Brussels - Baldonnel

An Taoiseach / Tánaiste (DFAT) / MOS European Affairs

Taoiseach, Tánaiste, MOS Plus 5

10/02/2013

12/02/2013

180

Baldonnel - Brussels - Baldonnel

Finance / MOS Public Expenditure

Minister, MOS Plus 6

05/02/2013

05/02/2013

200

Baldonnel - Strasbourg - Baldonnel

Agriculture, Marine & Food

Minister Plus 2

17/02/2013

18/02/2013

180

Baldonnel - Brussels - Baldonnel

Tánaiste (DFAT)

Tánaiste Plus 4

16/02/2013

16/02/2013

120

Baldonnel - Northolt - Baldonnel

Taoiseach / Defence / MOS Justice

Taoiseach, Minister, MOS Plus 5

28/02/2013

01/03/2013

120

Baldonnel - Northolt - Baldonnel

Tánaiste (DFAT)

Tánaiste Plus 5

27/02/2013

28/02/2013

180

Baldonnel - Brussels - Baldonnel

Education & Skills / Social Protection / Arts Heritage & Gaeltacht Affairs

Minister x 3 Plus 5

11/03/2013

11/03/2013

120

Baldonnel - Northolt - Baldonnel

An Taoiseach

Taoiseach Plus 7

15/03/2013

16/03/2013

180

Baldonnel - Brussels - Baldonnel

Finance

Minister Plus 2

24/03/2013

25/03/2013

180

Baldonnel - Brussels - Baldonnel

Finance

Minister Plus 3

11/04/2013

11/04/2013

210

Baldonnel - Zurich - Baldonnel

Communications, Energy & Natural Resources

Minister Plus 2

22/04/2013

23/04/2013

200

Baldonnel - Luxembourg - Baldonnel

Defence

Minister Plus 4

01/05/2013

02/05/2013

240

Baldonnel - Zurich - Baldonnel

Finance

Minister Plus 2

13/05/2013

14/05/2013

180

Baldonnel - Brussels - Baldonnel

Tánaiste (DFAT) / Finance / MOS Public Expenditure / MOS European Affairs

Tánaiste / Minister / MOS x 2 plus 11

20/05/2013

21/05/2013

180

Baldonnel - Brussels - Baldonnel

Tánaiste (DFAT)

Tánaiste Plus 5

30/05/2013

30/05/2013

180

Baldonnel - Brussels - Baldonnel

Communications, Energy & Natural Resources

Minister Plus 2

28/05/2013

29/05/2013

180

Baldonnel - Brussels - Baldonnel

Enterprise, Jobs & Innovation / MOS Enterprise

Minister / MOS plus 7

Gulfstream IV 2013

Departure date

Return date

Ministerial time on board (Minutes)

Route

Department

Passengers

30/01/2013

31/01/2013

180

Baldonnel - Brussels - Baldonnel

An Tánaiste (DFAT) / Public Expenditure & Reform / MOS European Affairs

Tánaiste, Minister, MOS plus 9

07/02/2013

08/02/2013

180

Baldonnel - Brussels - Baldonnel

An Taoiseach / Agriculture, Food & Marine / MOS European Affairs

Taoiseach, MOS plus 12

14/02/2013

16/02/2013

465

Baldonnel - Moscow - Baldonnel

Finance

Minister plus 5

21/02/2013

22/02/2013

180

Baldonnel - Brussels - Baldonnel

Communications, Energy & Natural Resources / MOS Communications

Minister, MOS plus 9

26/02/2013

27/02/2013

360

Baldonnel - Geneva - Rome - Baldonnel

Tánaiste (DFAT)

Tánaiste plus 6

03/03/2013

05/03/2013

180

Baldonnel - Brussels - Baldonnel

Finance / MOS Public Expenditure

Minister, MOS plus 7

09/03/2013

12/03/2013

390

Baldonnel - Beirut - Larnaca - Tel Aviv - Baldonnel

Defence

Minister plus 8

07/03/2013

07/03/2013

180

Baldonnel - Brussels - Baldonnel

An Taoiseach

Taoiseach Plus 6

15/03/2013

23/03/2013

1600

Baldonnel - White Plains - Washington - Orange County - Burbank - Moffett - Seattle - Edmonton - Baldonnel

An Taoiseach

Taoiseach Plus 14

13/03/2013

15/03/2013

180

Baldonnel - Brussels - Baldonnel

An Taoiseach / Enterprise, Jobs & Innovation / MOS European Affairs

Taoiseach / Minister / MOS plus 10

07/04/2013

10/04/2013

690

Baldonnel - Istanbul - Gaziantep - Ankara - Istanbul - Baldonnel

Tánaiste (DFAT)

Tánaiste Plus 13

11/04/2013

11/04/2013

180

Baldonnel - Brussels - Baldonnel

Tánaiste (DFAT) / MOS European Affairs

Tánaiste /MOS Plus 5

18/04/2013

19/04/2013

420

Baldonnel - Kiev - Baldonnel

MOS Public Expenditure & Reform

MOS Plus 5

21/04/2013

22/04/2013

200

Baldonnel - Luxembourg - Baldonnel

Tánaiste (DFAT) / Agriculture, Food & Marine / MOS European Affairs

Tánaiste / Minister / MOS plus 13

25/04/2013

25/04/2013

180

Baldonnel - Brussels - Baldonnel

Tánaiste (DFAT)

Tánaiste Plus 6

28/04/2013

29/04/2013

370

Baldonnel - Granada - Lisbon - Baldonnel

An Taoiseach

Taoiseach Plus 8

06/05/2013

06/05/2013

180

Baldonnel - Brussels - Baldonnel

An Taoiseach / Tánaiste (DFAT)

Taoiseach / Tánaiste plus 9

12/05/2013

13/05/2013

180

Baldonnel - Brussels - Baldonnel

Tánaiste (DFAT) / Finance / Public Expenditure & Reform / MOS Public Expenditure / MOS European Affairs

Tánaiste / Minister x2 / MOS plus 15

18/05/2013

20/05/2013

765

Baldonnel - Boston - Baldonnel

An Taoiseach

Taoiseach Plus 7

16/05/2013

17/05/2013

180

Baldonnel - Brussels - Baldonnel

Communications , Energy & Natural Resources/ Arts, Heritage & Gaeltacht / MOS Tourism

Minister x2 / MOS plus 8

22/05/2013

23/05/2013

505

Baldonnel - Brussels - Athens - Baldonnel

An Taoiseach

Taoiseach Plus 8

26/05/2013

29/05/2013

230

Baldonnel - Brussels - Paris - Baldonnel

Tánaiste (DFAT)

Tánaiste Plus 9

Defence Forces Operations

Questions (32, 38, 39)

Michael McGrath

Question:

32. Deputy Michael McGrath asked the Minister for Defence if the Defence Forces have been asked to undertake any duties in respect of the forthcoming G8 summit; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29105/13]

View answer

Martin Ferris

Question:

38. Deputy Martin Ferris asked the Minister for Defence if leave has been cancelled for Irish Defence Forces on 17 and 18 June 2013. [29117/13]

View answer

Mary Lou McDonald

Question:

39. Deputy Mary Lou McDonald asked the Minister for Defence the amount the security arrangements for the G8 summit in County Fermanagh will cost the Irish tax payer. [29116/13]

View answer

Written answers

I propose to take Questions Nos. 32, 38 and 39 together.

In this jurisdiction, security arrangements for the G8 Summit which is currently taking place in Co. Fermanagh are primarily the responsibility of An Garda Síochána. However, one of the roles assigned to the Defence Forces in the White Paper on Defence (2000) is to provide Aid to the Civil Power (ATCP) which, in practice, means to assist An Garda Síochána when requested to do so.

Arising from liaison with An Garda Síochána, the Defence Forces have a number of requested assets available on stand-by to support An Garda Síochána if required.These include Explosive Ordnance Disposal Teams and Engineer Specialised Search Teams along with Air Corps and Naval Service support.

Until the security operation has been fully wound down, the final costs of the specific contribution by the Defence Forces cannot be confirmed.Such costs are likely to include travel and subsistence and the payment of allowances for those personnel directly involved in the security operation.

No plans have been made to cancel Defence Forces leave during the period of the G8 Summit, however the individual General Officers Commanding have the right to cancel or restrict leave in exceptional operational circumstances.

Defence Forces Operations

Questions (33)

Catherine Murphy

Question:

33. Deputy Catherine Murphy asked the Minister for Defence the extent to which the Defence Forces Directorate of Intelligence cooperates with intelligence agencies in other countries to conduct remote electronic surveillance; if his attention has been drawn to any instances of such surveillance being conducted upon the communications of Irish citizens here by foreign intelligence agencies; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29128/13]

View answer

Written answers

The Defence Forces Intelligence Branch provide regular assessments, reports and briefings to the Chief of Staff, the Minister for Defence and the Secretary General of the Department of Defence, relating to internal or external threats to the security of the State and to national interests. Intelligence led liaison is conducted between Intelligence Branch and national authorities in other countries to counter any threat to the security of the State. The Intelligence Branch also maintains a very close and effective working relationship with their counterparts in An Garda Síochána.

The Defence Forces adheres to the provisions of all legislation regulating the conduct of intelligence gathering. The Interception of Postal Packets and Telecommunications Messages (Regulation) Act, 1993 does provide the Defence Forces with the authority to conduct intelligence led operations involving surveillance, electronic communications and stored electronic information in order to safeguard and maintain the security of the State. The Criminal Justice (Surveillance) Act 2009 also provides for surveillance to be conducted by the Defence Forces in order to safeguard the security of the State.

These Acts also provide a system of judicial supervision with reports to be submitted to An Taoiseach by designated judges who are appointed by the President of the High Court to review the conduct of certain sections of the Acts. The relevant legislation further provides that a copy of such reports is laid before each House of the Oireachtas.

In all cases, the capabilities provided to the Defence Forces are the subject of both Ministerial and Judicial oversight and to the restrictions and safeguards as outlined in the legislation.

Emergency Planning

Questions (34)

Bernard Durkan

Question:

34. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Defence the degree to which he expects the Defence Forces to be in a position to provide the widest possible scale of emergency and support services with particular reference to air ambulance, naval and air surveillance and any necessary requirements in the event of natural or other disaster; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29028/13]

View answer

Written answers

The involvement of the Defence Forces in responding to emergencies or security issues arises from requests for assistance from An Garda Síochána in an Aid to the Civil Power role or from other agencies of State in Aid to the Civil Authority.

In relation to Aid to the Civil Authority, the Framework for Major Emergency Management sets out the structure for enabling the Principal Response Agencies (An Garda Síochána, the Health Service Executive and Local Authorities) to prepare for, and make a coordinated response to, major emergencies and the Defence Forces respond within that Framework. Representation on the Government Task Force on Emergency Planning, by both my Department and the Defence Forces also ensures the fullest coordination and cooperation in the event of an emergency.

A Service Level Agreement between my Department and the Department of Health is in place which formalises the arrangements for the support provided by the Air Corps for emergency inter-hospital transfers, in the following cases:

- spinal and serious injuries and illnesses,

- air transport of neonates requiring immediate medical intervention within Ireland,

- air transport of patients requiring organ transplants in the UK,

- air transport of Organ Retrieval Teams within Ireland, and

- air transport of patients from offshore islands to mainland hospitals where the Irish Coast Guard service is not available.

In addition, a Memorandum of Understanding has been agreed between my Department and the Department of Health which underpins the Air Corps’ support to the National Ambulance Service for a pilot Emergency Aeromedical Support service, operating primarily in the west of Ireland and from Custume Barracks Athlone. This pilot service was for a twelve month period from 4 June 2012. It has now been extended for a period of up to three months from 4 June 2013 pending consideration by my colleague, the Minister for Health, of a Report on a review of the pilot service which is currently being finalised.

In relation to the Naval Service, all vessels are multi-tasked in the sense that, in addition to their fishery protection role, they also undertake general surveillance, security, pollution monitoring, Search and Rescue and other duties while on patrol. These activities assist in detecting and preventing emergency situations throughout Ireland’s maritime jurisdiction.

Regular exercises are undertaken by the Defence Forces, including the Air Corps and the Naval Service, with the Principal Response Agencies and other Agencies who have a lead role in emergency management and response.

Defence Forces Strength

Questions (35)

Bernard Durkan

Question:

35. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Defence if he is satisfied that he will be in a position to maintain the current strength of the Defence Forces including military installations and facilities notwithstanding the commitments entered into by his predecessors in office under the Memorandum of Understanding; if he expects that the normal and or periodic upgrading of facilities will be achieved in the short and medium term; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29027/13]

View answer

Written answers

Similar to all other Government Departments, it is imperative that the Department and the Defence Forces take into account the current difficult economic environment we are now operating in. The budgetary situation continues to dictate the level of funding available for recruitment, new equipment and upgrading facilities. In relation to the current strength of the Defence Forces I am advised by the military authorities that the strength of the Permanent Defence Force at 30 April 2013, the latest date for which details are available, was 9,163. This is against the agreed stabilised strength for the Permanent Defence Force of 9,500. In this context it is my intention that targeted recruitment will continue within the resource envelope allocated to Defence.Targeted recruitment will ensure that into the future the Permanent Defence Force can continue to deliver all operational outputs required by Government in the domestic environment as well as for overseas peace support operations. The full spectrum of Defence Forces personnel and equipment, is also available for deployments in response to emergencies and crises.

The Defence property portfolio is kept under review to ensure the most effective use of military resources having regard to the roles assigned by Government to the Defence Forces. The Department has been engaged on an ongoing programme of barrack consolidation since 1998. In addition to the main barracks a number of other smaller properties have also been identified as surplus to military requirements. Some of these have already been disposed of whilst others are in the process of being prepared for disposal. These mainly consist of married quarters and Reserve Defence Force premises.

The consolidation of the Defence Forces formations into a smaller number of locations is a key objective in the ongoing defence modernisation programme and has been recommended in many reports over the past number of years. As the Deputy is aware I have indicated to the House previously there are no plans for further barrack closures. There is also a programme in place for the maintenance and development of necessary facilities to enable the Defence Forces to continue to fulfil all roles assigned by Government.

Top
Share