Written Answers Nos. 1-31
11. Deputy Clare Daly asked the Minister for Defence his views regarding the number of occasions, and the cost thereof, on which Defence Forces personnel have been involved in aid to the civil power duties at Shannon in 2015. [6887/15]
View answerAn 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 (ATCP) which, in practice, means to assist An Garda Síochána when requested to do so.
The Gardaí have requested ATCP support from the Defence Forces at Shannon since 2003. Up to 12th February 2015 there has been 47 deployments at a cost of €24,116, which includes Security Duty Allowance, rations and fuel.
The basis for such requests are an operational matter for An Garda Síochána. Accordingly, decisions to seek support from the Defence Forces are a matter for An Garda Síochána.
12. Deputy Robert Troy asked the Minister for Defence his plans and priorities for the future of Custume Barracks in Athlone, County Roscommon; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6894/15]
View answerThere is an ongoing capital building programme designed to modernise and enhance the training, operational and accommodation facilities available to members of the Defence Forces. Under this programme there has been considerable capital investment at Custume Barracks, Athlone in recent years, amounting to some €6.4m from 2009 to date.
While there are no major capital projects planned for this year, there are ongoing works required to ensure the upkeep and repair of buildings and provide facilities generally for personnel.
Custume Barracks is and will continue to be an important operational military barracks. There are no plans to change this.
13. Deputy Seán Crowe asked the Minister for Defence his plans or proposals for the recently decommissioned LÉ (Long Éireann) Aoife naval vessel; and when the LÉ (Long Éireann) James Joyce will arrive and replace the LÉ Aoife. [6875/15]
View answerLÉ Aoife was decommissioned from the Naval Service fleet on 31st January 2015 following 35 years of service. The ceremony took place in Waterford as the ship had a long association with the city.
The proud record of the ship in operational service with the Naval Service was duly recognised and the range of activities which the ship was involved in was recalled and commended.
With regard to the future of LÉ Aoife, the intention was, as with LÉ Emer, to sell the decommissioned ship at a public auction. However, I am considering a formal approach from the Maltese Minister for Home Affairs and National Security in which they have outlined interest in acquiring LÉ Aoife.
Following discussions with my Maltese counterpart, I understand that the Maltese authorities require this ship for their armed forces to patrol the Mediterranean Sea to endeavour to deal with the ongoing difficult refugee crisis in the region.
Recent tragic events in that part of the Mediterranean have underlined the significant challenges which need to be addressed by the international community. In the circumstances, I wish to advise the Deputy that I am favourably disposed to acceding to the request from the Maltese authorities on humanitarian grounds. I will discuss the matter further with my colleague, the Minister for Home Affairs and National Security, when I meet him later today at an EU Defence Ministers Informal Council in Riga.
The Naval Service Ships Replacement Programme continues to move ahead with the sea acceptance trials for LÉ James Joyce scheduled to take place in the middle of March 2015 in the United Kingdom. Subject to the successful outcome of these trials, the ship will be handed over to the Department of Defence.
Details of the formal naming and commissioning of LÉ James Joyce into operational service will be finalised when the ship arrives into Ireland.
14. Deputy Mick Wallace asked the Minister for Defence if the Irish air force has any capability to monitor or communicate with foreign military aircraft flying through Irish airspace, including aircraft that have their transponders switched off; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6879/15]
View answerThe Irish Aviation Authority (IAA) exercises Air Traffic Control responsibilities for an airspace of some 450,000 sq. kms comprising of both sovereign airspace and also airspace over the high seas, largely off the western seaboard. These latter responsibilities for airspace over the high seas are exercised under assignment from the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO). All air traffic, both civil and military, is monitored and controlled by the IAA in respect of this airspace in accordance with the ICAO’s safety objectives for civil aviation.
In line with ICAO rules it is normal practice for the IAA to be informed by the relevant State of any military flights operating in Irish controlled airspace.
On a routine basis, the Air Corps monitors and communicates with foreign military aircraft where such aircraft are flying in the airspace in the vicinity of Casement Aerodrome, Baldonnel, where air traffic control is provided by the Defence Forces. However, the Air Corps is not tasked or equipped to monitor and communicate with military aircraft overflying Irish airspace irrespective of whether the transponder is switched on or not. This position is in accordance with the Air Corps’ roles as set out in the White Paper for Defence (2000).
The Deputy may wish to note that, under the legislative requirements of the Air Navigation (Foreign Military Aircraft) Order 1952, all military aircraft require the permission of the Minister of Foreign Affairs and Trade to overfly or land in the State.
15. Deputy Mick Wallace asked the Minister for Defence if he has a long-term understanding of what the Irish Resolute Support Mission hopes to achieve in Afghanistan; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6878/15]
View answerOn 9 December 2014, the Government approved the participation of seven members of the Defence Forces in the new NATO-led Resolute Support Mission in Afghanistan, which commenced on 01 January 2015, following the withdrawal of the International Security Assistance Force (ISAF) mission from Afghanistan.
Resolute Support Mission is a non-combat training and advisory mission. It is designed to support and develop the capacity of the Afghan National Defence Forces to ensure the security of the Afghan population and its national governmental institutions following the withdrawal of the ISAF mission. The United Nations Security Council welcomed the Resolute Support mission with the unanimous adoption on 12 December 2014 of Resolution 2189. This Resolution underscores the importance of continued international support for the stability of Afghanistan.
The seven (7) Defence Forces personnel who were deployed to the ISAF mission were reassigned to the new Resolute Support Mission on the 1st of January 2015. They are based in the mission headquarters in Kabul. These personnel are employed in training and advisory roles in Operations, Training and Support appointments. The work being carried out by the Defence Forces personnel represents an important contribution to this new mission.
16. Deputy Richard Boyd Barrett asked the Minister for Defence if he will provide an updated list of countries from outside the EU from which his Department and the Defence Forces purchase equipment; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6899/15]
View answerThe priority for the procurement of defensive equipment by the Department of Defence is to maintain the capability of the Irish Defence Forces at home and on overseas peace support operations and to afford the greatest possible force protection to Irish troops whilst on such missions.
Tender competitions for defensive equipment for the Defence Forces are conducted by the Department of Defence in accordance with EU procurement guidelines and are open to any individual or country in accordance with the terms of all UN, OSCE and EU arms embargoes or restrictions.
The principle of competitive tendering for Government contracts is used by the Department of Defence for the acquisition of defensive equipment for the Defence Forces. This is based on the requirement to allow fair competition between suppliers through the submission of tenders following advertising of the tender competition usually on the e-tenders site and as required in line with the EU Directive on the procurement of Defence and Security equipment.
In following the required procurement guidelines and codes, the Department of Defence must deal impartially with all companies that are entitled to enter its procurement competitions and must evaluate tenders on the basis of objective criteria.
17. Deputy Seán Ó Fearghaíl asked the Minister for Defence the key elements of the memorandum of understanding recently entered into with the Ministry of Defence of the United Kingdom; if work has commenced on the drafting of a three-year action plan that contains the detailed programme of bilateral co-operation activities for the forthcoming year and sets the objectives for the succeeding two years; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6890/15]
View answerThe Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) provides a framework for developing and furthering bilateral co-operation and relations between the Department of Defence and the UK Ministry of Defence. The MoU takes into account matters such as military forces training; exercises and military education; exchange of views on EU Common Security and Defence Policy; potential for joint contributions to UN Crisis Management Operations; joint procurement initiatives; pooling and sharing resources; general sharing on reform in defence services; potential for staff exchanges; sharing of information, and joint contribution to Security Sector Reform and capacity building in crisis locations. It envisages cooperation and exchanges involving both civil and military personnel. The MoU provides opportunities for more joint and collaborative work in support of international peace and security. It will also enhance the potential for further joint contributions to UN peacekeeping operations.
The approach to developing the Action Plan has been agreed with the UK and the Action Plan is at a very early stage of development. The proposed Action Plan will contain a detailed programme of bilateral co-operation activities for the forthcoming year and set the objectives for the following two years.
18. Deputy Seán Kyne asked the Minister for Defence in the context of the establishment of an external advisory group to support the production of a White Paper on Defence, if he will confirm membership of this group; when it is hoped that the White Paper will be finalised and brought to Government in order to guide defence policy, including the role to be played by the Defence Forces overseas, in view of the increasing volatility of international relations; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6895/15]
View answerWork is continuing on the development of a new White Paper on Defence. Working groups comprising civil and military representatives from the Department of Defence and the Defence Forces are considering likely future operational demands and the defence capabilities required to meet these demands. This work will inform recommendations regarding defence provision.
A key part of the development of the White Paper is the consideration of the security environment and challenges that may emerge into the future. As recent events have highlighted, the security environment can be volatile and unpredictable.
In the course of their deliberations, the Working Groups are taking into consideration the inputs received from a wide variety of stakeholders. Discussions have also been held with a range of other Government Departments on cross-cutting policy issues and likely future demands from Government bodies and State agencies. This includes the views of international organisations which have been sought, with a particular focus on likely future trends in international peace support operations.
Defence policy is a critical aspect of Government policy and I am determined to ensure that the new White Paper fully addresses the Defence response to future security challenges and associated resource requirements in a comprehensive way.
I have decided to establish an external Advisory Group to further support me in the production of the White Paper. I have appointed Mr. John Minihan to act as chairman to the Group. I have been in contact with a number of people, who have experience and expertise in the area of defence and defence policy and I can confirm that Ms. Marie Cross, Mr. Frank Lynch and Mr. Karl Croke have agreed to join the Group.
I anticipate that the final draft of the White Paper will be submitted to Government for approval by the end of July. Subject to Government approval, the White Paper on Defence will then be published.
19. Deputy Paul Murphy asked the Minister for Defence the content of, and the obligations on, the Defence Forces, arising from the recently signed memorandum of understanding on security and defence co-operation with the United Kingdom; his views of its implications for the Government's policy of military neutrality; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6896/15]
View answerThe Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) provides a framework for developing and furthering bilateral co-operation and relations between the Department of Defence and the UK Ministry of Defence. The MoU takes into account matters such as military forces training; exercises and military education; exchange of views on EU Common Security and Defence Policy; potential for joint contributions to UN Crisis Management Operations; joint procurement initiatives; pooling and sharing resources; general sharing of reform in defence services; potential for staff exchanges; sharing of information, and joint contribution to Security Sector Reform and capacity building in crisis locations. It envisages cooperation and exchanges involving both civil and military personnel. The MoU provides opportunities for more joint and collaborative work in support of international peace and security. It will also enhance the potential for further joint contributions to UN peacekeeping operations.
The MoU is a voluntary, non-binding arrangement between the Department of Defence and the UK Ministry of Defence and does not affect or prejudice the position or policy of either country in the areas of Common and/or Mutual Defence. The MoU clearly states that it “will not impact on Ireland’s traditional policy of military neutrality or commit Ireland, in terms of military or financial resources, in a manner which could be inconsistent with that policy, the Irish Constitution or with the Lisbon Treaty protocols”.
20. Deputy Seán Ó Fearghaíl asked the Minister for Defence when the White Paper on defence will be published; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6888/15]
View answerWork is continuing on the development of a new White Paper on Defence. Working groups comprising civil and military representatives from the Department of Defence and the Defence Forces are considering likely future operational demands and the defence capabilities required to meet these demands. This work will inform recommendations regarding future defence provision.
A key part of the development of the White Paper is the consideration of the security environment and challenges that may emerge into the future. As recent events have highlighted, the security environment can be volatile and unpredictable.
In the course of their deliberations, the Working Groups are taking into consideration the inputs received from a wide variety of stakeholders. Discussions have also been held with a range of other Government Departments on cross-cutting policy issues and likely future demands from Government bodies and State agencies. This includes the views of international organisations which have been sought, with a particular focus on likely future trends in international peace support operations.
Defence policy is a critical aspect of Government policy and I am determined to ensure that the new White Paper fully addresses the Defence response to future security challenges and associated resource requirements in a comprehensive way.
I have decided to establish an external Advisory Group to further support me in the production of the White Paper. I have appointed Mr. John Minihan to act as chairman to the Group. Ms. Marie Cross, Mr. Frank Lynch and Mr. Karl Croke have also agreed to join the Group.
I anticipate that the final draft of the White Paper will be submitted to Government for approval by the end of July. Subject to Government approval, the White Paper on Defence will then be published.
21. Deputy Denis Naughten asked the Minister for Defence his plans to expand the operational roles of the Air Corps; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6795/15]
View answerThe White Paper on Defence (2000) sets out the current defence policy framework. The role of the Air Corps as set out in the White Paper is to provide a range of military and non-military services in support of the State. These supports include maintenance of a general helicopter capability for a variety of tasks, including support to An Garda Síochána, as well as provision of a maritime patrol service, a ministerial air transport service, an air ambulance service on the basis of agreed arrangements with the Department of Health, and the provision of assistance to the principal response agencies, including the Irish Coast Guard, in relation to civil emergencies.
The preparation of a new White Paper on Defence is one of my key priorities. The White Paper process, which is ongoing, is intended to provide an opportunity to examine critically future demands and consider how to best meet associated operational requirements across the Defence Forces.
Working groups comprising civil and military representatives from the Department of Defence and the Defence Forces are considering likely future operational demands. The question of the future operational roles of the Air Corps is being considered in this context. You will appreciate that I do not wish to second guess any recommendations that may arise from the White Paper process by commenting on specific issues at this point. The final draft of the White Paper will be fully considered by Government in due course.
22. Deputy Clare Daly asked the Minister for Defence his views regarding the current status of the United Nations Disengagement Observer Force mission in the Golan Heights; and if he is satisfied with the continued involvement of personnel of the Irish Defence Forces in this operation. [6886/15]
View answerAt the request of the United Nations, following Government and Dáil Éireann approval, a contingent of the Permanent Defence Force has been deployed to the United Nations Disengagement Observer Force (UNDOF) on the Golan Heights in Syria since 2013.
The current Irish contingent, the 46th Infantry Group, is based in UNDOF Headquarters in Camp Ziouani. It operates in the role of a Quick Reaction Force, which is on standby to assist with on-going operations within the UNDOF Area of Responsibility. Eight (8) other Defence Forces personnel are also deployed in UNDOF Headquarters, including the Deputy Force Commander, Brigadier General Anthony Hanlon.
Following the significant events in August 2014 in the area of separation, there was a fundamental realignment of the UNDOF mission with a view to minimizing unacceptable risks to peacekeepers, while continuing to implement the mission’s mandate. Most UNDOF personnel are now deployed on the Israeli side of the area of separation. The UN provides regular updates on the mission to the Security Council in this regard. The presence of the UNDOF mission remains an important element in ensuring stability on the Golan Heights and in the Middle East region.
Participation in overseas missions is reviewed by the Government on an annual basis. On the 17th June 2014, the Government approved continued participation in the UNDOF mission for a period of twelve months up to June 2015. I intend to bring proposals to Government in due course for the continued participation by the Defence Forces in the mission beyond June 2015, subject to the renewal of the UN authority for the mission.
23. Deputy Seán Crowe asked the Minister for Defence the role the Naval Service plays in the joint task force on drug interdiction; if there are formal agreements with similar foreign or other naval services; and the amount, financially or otherwise, his Department contributes to this task force. [6873/15]
View answerResponsibility for the prevention of drug trafficking rests primarily with the Customs Service of the Revenue Commissioners. Responsibility for the prevention of crime rests primarily with An Garda Síochána. However, the White Paper on Defence (2000) provides for a security role for the Naval Service and the Air Corps to assist and support the civil authorities in this important work.
The Joint Task Force on Drug Interdiction was established in 1993 as a Government measure to improve law enforcement in relation to drugs and consists of members of An Garda Síochána, the Customs Service and the Naval Service.
While there is no direct financial contribution to the Task Force, the Defence Forces make a significant contribution to its work. Drug interdiction is carried out by Naval ships on receipt of intelligence from the Joint Task Force. The Air Corps provides air support and on occasion carries the Customs National Drugs Team in an observational capacity for the purposes of monitoring vessels suspected of drug trafficking.
Internationally, the establishment in 2007 of the Maritime Analysis and Operations Centre – Narcotics (MAOC-N) has led to a greater focus on intelligence exchange amongst countries to tackle large drug shipments by sea. MAOC-N was set up by seven European countries and is designed as an international co-ordination force with access to national tasking agencies and requires participation and resources from all active members. An Garda Síochána and the Customs Service have full-time officers based at the Centre in Lisbon. Irish Naval Service personnel travel to the Centre when requested by the Joint Task Force.
The value of this cooperation both nationally and internationally in tackling large drug shipments at sea was highlighted in September last when an operation by members of the Task Force, supported by the EU Maritime Analysis and Operations Centre for Narcotics and other agencies, resulted in a highly successful drug interdiction operation off the south west coast.
24. Deputy Paul Murphy asked the Minister for Defence the resources deployed by the Irish Defence Forces in Afghanistan, including troop numbers; the missions they are engaged in; and details of the other forces with which they are co-operating. [6897/15]
View answerOn 9 December 2014, the Government approved the participation of seven members of the Defence Forces in the new NATO-led Resolute Support Mission in Afghanistan, which commenced on 01 January 2015, following the withdrawal of the International Security Assistance Force (ISAF) mission from Afghanistan.
Resolute Support Mission is a non-combat training and advisory mission. It is designed to support and develop the capacity of the Afghan National Defence Forces so as they can ensure the security of the Afghan population and its national governmental institutions following the withdrawal of the ISAF mission.
The United Nations Security Council welcomed the Resolute Support mission with the unanimous adoption on 12 December 2014 of Resolution 2189. This Resolution underscores the importance of continued international support for the stability of Afghanistan.
As of 01 February 2015, a total of 39 countries are contributing approximately 13,000 personnel to the mission. The main contributors are Australia, Czech Republic, Georgia, Germany, Italy, Romania, Spain, Turkey, United Kingdom and United States.
The seven (7) Defence Forces personnel who were deployed to the ISAF mission were reassigned to the new Resolute Support Mission on the 1st of January 2015. They are based in the mission headquarters in Kabul. These personnel are employed in training and advisory roles in Operations, Training and Support appointments. The work being carried out by the Defence Forces personnel represents an important contribution to this new mission.
25. Deputy Mattie McGrath asked the Minister for Defence as chair of the Government task force on emergency planning, if he will provide an update of the work carried out under the Government's Be Winter-Ready 2014-2015 campaign; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6798/15]
View answerI jointly launched the “Be Winter Ready” Government Information Campaign for 2014/2015 on 13 November 2014 with the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport and the Minister of State at the Department of Environment, Community and Local Government. A cross-Departmental working group of the Government Task Force on Emergency Planning has met on a regular basis during 2014 to oversee the development of the 2014/15 ‘Be Winter Ready’ campaign by the Office of Emergency Planning (OEP). The role of the OEP is to ensure that there is a “whole of Government” approach to emergency planning while each lead Department/Agency retains responsibility for their specific winter preparedness.
The meetings reviewed aspects of the previous ‘Be Winter Ready’ campaign in 2013/2014 and agreed new initiatives to be included in this year’s campaign. This includes building on the national and local radio advertisement and social media campaigns initiated in 2013 as well as continuing the display of public information notices at peak traffic times across all the National Roads Authority motorway signs.
A redesign of the ‘Be Winter Ready’ booklet was undertaken by OEP staff making it more ‘user friendly’. The office distributed over 9,000 copies of the booklet to libraries, community groups, individuals etc. throughout the country. It is also available for download at www.winterready.ie . Posters were designed and produced in different sizes for distribution to post offices, transport groups, libraries, community groups, etc. All Departments/Agencies put links to www.winterready.ie on their website and informed all bodies under their aegis of the campaign.
OEP staff attended the National Ploughing Championship in September 2014 and designed, produced and distributed a leaflet for farm families, which was launched at this event.
While these innovative steps helped to further expand the public awareness of this annual information campaign, the OEP would welcome any innovative suggestions for further promoting this annual campaign for the next winter season in 2015/2016.
26. Deputy Seán Crowe asked the Minister for Defence if the memorandum of understanding on security and defence co-operation that he signed with his British counterpart includes any provisions for the release of documents concerning the Dublin and Monaghan bombings; or if he or his Department raised this issue during any of the negotiations. [6876/15]
View answerThe Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) provides a framework for developing and furthering bilateral co-operation and relations between the Department of Defence and the UK Ministry of Defence. The MOU takes into account matters such as military forces training; exercises and military education; exchange of views on EU Common Security and Defence Policy; potential for joint contributions to UN Crisis Management Operations; joint procurement initiatives; pooling and sharing resources; general sharing of reform in defence services; potential for staff exchanges; sharing of information, and joint contribution to Security Sector Reform and capacity building in crisis locations. It envisages cooperation and exchanges involving both civil and military personnel.
The MoU relates solely to future security and defence co-operation and the discussions did not cover other issues such as that raised by the deputy.
27. Deputy Seán Crowe asked the Minister for Defence the number of families living in Army accommodation who were given a notice-to-quit order by the Army authorities, between 2011 and 2014, because they were deemed to be no longer cohabiting; the position regarding a couple who are still legally married but currently separated; and his plans to review the current eviction process for dealing with sensitive cases, or those experiencing relationship difficulties, who in many cases are unable to source alternative accommodation. [6874/15]
View answerUnder military regulations married quarters have in the past been allocated to serving personnel upon request. Personnel who leave the Defence Forces or who vacate a married quarter property that had been assigned to them are required under regulations to return vacant possession of that property. Where the property is not vacated those remaining in the property are overholding and the Department seeks to recover possession from them.
Overholders are those who have no right under military regulations to hold or reside in military accommodation. The personal circumstances regarding the people overholding would not generally be known to the Department consequently I am unable to provide the numbers overholding due to circumstances such as relationship breakdown.
The Department assists in whatever way it can in order to resolve the cases of overholding without recourse to legal action. It is preferable not to have to use legal means to obtain vacant possession of the properties concerned. However, any initiative to resolve overholding must support and complement the current policy, which dates back to 1997, of withdrawing from the provision of married quarters.
While each case of overholding is dealt with on an individual basis, it is important to remember that my Department does not have a role in the provision of housing accommodation for the general public.
The securing of alternative housing is a matter for the individuals concerned in the first instance. If individuals are not in a position to secure housing in their own right it may be the case that they qualify for social housing or that they qualify for some level of housing assistance. In such cases my Department provides whatever assistance it can in support of any such application. In addition, officials from my Department have met with officials from relevant local authorities regarding the overholding issue in order to make them aware of the situation and so as to be in a position to advise overholders of procedures and requirements when making applications for social housing, if requested to do so.
There are also a number of advice and support services available to Defence Forces personnel and their families. The Defence Forces Personnel Support Service (DFPSS) provides a confidential information, training and education, support and referral service for Defence Forces personnel with one or more qualified Barrack Personnel Support Service Officer(s) (BPSSO) in every Barracks.
The role of the BPSSO includes providing information, assistance and counselling on a range of matters including:
- Interpersonal problems
- Stress in many forms (personal, due to family and/or financial problems etc.)
- Bereavement (in its many forms, including family breakup)
- Housing (including stress from mortgages, inability to sell property to relocate family nearer the military workplace etc.)
Each Brigade/Formation also has a civilian Defence Forces Social Worker whose tasks are to provide assistance and support to service military personnel and their families, where required.
In addition, there is an Independent Confidential Helpline and Counselling Service for Permanent Defence Force personnel. Since 2013 this independent and confidential service was extended and a broader range of services was introduced, including family and couple counselling.
28. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Defence the extent of further requests from the United Nations for the deployment of Irish troops on peacekeeping expeditions; the extent to which such deployment will arise in future years; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6871/15]
View answerAs of 1st February 2015, Ireland is contributing 432 Defence Forces personnel to 11 different missions throughout the world. The main overseas missions, in which Defence Forces personnel are currently deployed, are the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) with 199 personnel, the United Nations Disengagement Observer Force (UNDOF) with 138 personnel, the NATO-led International Security presence (KFOR) in Kosovo with 12 personnel, the EU-led operation ALTHEA in Bosnia and Herzegovina, with 7 personnel, the EU-led Training Mission in Mali with 10 personnel and the NATO-led Resolute Support Mission in Afghanistan with 7 personnel. Other personnel are serving as monitors and observers with several United Nations missions. Personnel have also recently deployed to the Irish Embassy in Sierra Leone and five (5) medical personnel deployed with UK Armed forces in Sierra Leone to support the international response to the Ebola crisis in West Africa.
Requests received by Ireland from time to time in relation to participation in various missions are considered on a case-by-case basis. Initial work on possible options for a contribution by Ireland to the EU maritime mission in the Horn of Africa, Operation ATALANTA is being undertaken in my Department and a decision in this regard will be made in due course.
However, given Ireland’s current level of commitment in overseas peacekeeping operations, notably to UNDOF and UNIFIL we are not in a position to make significant long-term commitments to other missions at this time.
The current contribution of some 432 personnel to overseas missions reflects the Government’s continued commitment to our responsibilities in the area of international peace and security.
29. Deputy Seán Ó Fearghaíl asked the Minister for Defence his response to concerns that the disestablishment of the 4th Western Brigade of the Defence Forces in 2012 has had a negative social impact in the midlands, west and north west of the country; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6892/15]
View answerA re-organisation of the Defence Forces was initiated by the former Minister for Defence in line with the Government’s decision to stabilise the strength ceiling of the PDF at 9,500 personnel.
The consolidation of three under-strength Army Brigades into two full strength Brigades ensured that within the revised strength ceiling, the operational effectiveness of the Permanent Defence Force was optimised in order to fulfil all roles assigned by Government.
The re-organisation within a stabilised strength ceiling of 9,500 personnel did not require any job losses as this strength level is similar to the actual strength of the Defence Forces when the current Government took up office in 2011.
While functions moved between locations, the actual number of PDF personnel in locations throughout the country did not change significantly.
The movement and transfer of Officers across locations throughout the country has always been and will continue to be a feature of an Officer’s career, which is essential to their career and experiential development within the Defence Forces.
The Army provides the land component of the State’s Defence capabilities. While recognising, the value of the organisation at local level, decisions on organisational structures must be based on the efficient and effective organisation of the Defence Forces.
I am assured that the current structures contribute to optimising the capacity of the Permanent Defence Force to deliver the required operational outputs, within the available resources. This remains one of my key objectives as Minister for Defence.
30. Deputy Seán Ó Fearghaíl asked the Minister for Defence his response to the arrest in Lebanon of a suspect in the murder of two Irish soldiers in 1980; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6891/15]
View answerThe matter to which the Deputy is referring is the recent arrest and detention in Beirut by the Lebanese authorities of the alleged perpetrator of the murder of Privates Thomas Barrett and Derek Smallhorne and the attempted murder of Private John O’Mahony, while they were serving with the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) on 18 April 1980.
The alleged perpetrator, Mr. Mahmoud Bazzi, was returned to his native Lebanon on 30 January 2015, following deportation from the United States where he was residing. Removal proceedings were undertaken by Immigration and Customs Enforcement of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security. He remains in custody in Lebanon.
This is a significant step in the pursuit of justice for Privates Thomas Barrett and Derek Smallhorne who lost their lives while on United Nations peacekeeping duty in Lebanon almost 35 years ago. The arrest of the alleged perpetrator was an important day for the families and I wish to commend them for their continued commitment to securing justice for their loved ones.
The Irish Government are aware that the Lebanese authorities have primary jurisdiction in terms of pursuing a prosecution against the alleged perpetrator. We stand ready to provide whatever assistance possible to the Lebanese authorities in progressing this issue. However, it is a matter for the Lebanese authorities to investigate the case and to determine any future action and it would be inappropriate for me to comment any further in the matter.
31. Deputy Mick Wallace asked the Minister for Defence his plans to initiate a review of the participation by Irish Defence Forces in the United Nations Disengagement Observer Force operation in the Golan Heights; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6881/15]
View answerAt the request of the United Nations, following Government and Dáil Éireann approval, a contingent of the Permanent Defence Force has been deployed to the United Nations Disengagement Observer Force (UNDOF) on the Golan Heights in Syria since 2013.
The current Irish contingent, the 46th Infantry Group, is based in UNDOF Headquarters in Camp Ziouani. It operates in the role of a Quick Reaction Force, which is on standby to assist with on-going operations within the UNDOF Area of Responsibility. Eight (8) other Defence Forces personnel are also deployed in UNDOF Headquarters, including the Deputy Force Commander, Brigadier General Anthony Hanlon.
Following the significant events in August 2014 in the area of separation, there was a fundamental realignment of the UNDOF mission with a view to minimizing unacceptable risks to peacekeepers, while continuing to implement the mission’s mandate. Most UNDOF personnel are now deployed on the Israeli side of the area of separation. The UN provides regular updates on the mission to the Security Council in this regard. The presence of the UNDOF mission remains an important element in ensuring stability on the Golan Heights and in the Middle East region.
Participation in overseas missions is reviewed by the Government on an annual basis. On the 17th June 2014, the Government approved continued participation in the UNDOF mission for a period of twelve months up to June 2015. I intend to bring proposals to Government in due course for the continued participation by the Defence Forces in the mission beyond June 2015, subject to the renewal of the UN authority for the mission.
