Written Answers Nos. 1 - 43
19. Deputy Richard Boyd Barrett asked the Taoiseach and Minister for Defence the total cost to the Exchequer of Irish participation in the EU battle groups since their foundation; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33813/16]
View answerParticipation in EU Battlegroups demonstrates Ireland’s commitment to the development of EU capabilities in the area of crisis management and contributes to our overall credibility within the Union. Ireland’s continuing active engagement in EU Battlegroups enhances our capacity to influence the ongoing development and evolution of the rapid response capacity of the EU, in particular, the role Battlegroups can play in reinforcing and acting as a strategic reserve for UN operations. The United Nations strongly supports the development of Battlegroups as a capability that could be made available in support of UN mandated missions. It also supports the development of rapid deployment skills and capabilities within the Defence Forces, together with improved interoperability with like-minded States. Participation in EU Battlegroups further supports Ireland’s international security and defence policy and enhances our bilateral relations with contributing Member States.
To date Ireland has participated in the Nordic Battlegroup in 2008, 2011 and 2015 as well as the Austro-German Battlegroup in 2012. Ireland is currently participating in both the German led and UK led Battlegroups which stood up on 01 July 2016 until 31 December 2016.
The total costs directly associated with Irish participation in EU Battlegroups between 2007 and 31 December 2015 amount to just under €9.5 million, of which approximately €6m is direct payroll costs which would have been incurred in the normal course. The remaining €3.5 million, relates to subsistence, allowances, transport, flights and other such costs incurred during the preparation and standby period for the Battlegroup. In the time available, my Department has not been able to fully validate all the costs incurred. Should the final figure which emerges be materially different, I will write to the Deputy.
The final figures for 2016 participation will not be known until after the German and UK led Battlegroup's stand down on 01 January 2017.
In respect of the German led Battlegroup, the current estimated additional cost for a maximum 120 day Battlegroup deployment, should the Battlegroup be deployed, is €10.7 million. This cost would cover transportation of troops and equipment, accommodation, overseas allowance and recovery of troops etc. This additional cost will only arise if the German Battlegroup were to be deployed and any deployment of the Defence Forces contingent would be subject to Government and Dáil Éireann approval and a UN Mandate in accordance with the provisions of the Defence Acts.
23. Deputy Gino Kenny asked the Taoiseach and Minister for Defence the total cost of the defence budget as a percentage of GDP in 2015. [33816/16]
View answerDefence expenditure for 2015, in respect of Vote 35 (Army Pensions) and Vote 36 (Defence), was €898m which is 0.35% of GDP. The expenditure for 2015 was comprised of some €671m in Defence expenditure and €227m in Army Pensions expenditure.
On the Defence Vote, some €459m was expended on the pay and allowances of Defence Forces personnel, civilian employees and civil servants of the Department.
With regard to non-pay current expenditure, some €123m was spent on essential and ongoing Defence Forces standing and operational costs such as utilities, fuel, catering, maintenance, information technology and training.
The remaining €89m in Defence expenditure related to capital investment on essential infrastructure and equipment. The broad areas of capital expenditure in 2015 included the replacement of naval vessels in the Naval Service flotilla; ongoing investment in Defence Forces built infrastructure and the purchase of new and replacement Information and Communication Technology hardware.
The Defence Vote also included expenditure relating to the Reserve Defence Force, Civil Defence and a grant to the Irish Red Cross Society.
The Army Pensions expenditure of over €227m provided mainly for retirement benefits to over 12,100 military pensioners and their dependants in 2015.
Defence is a critical element of Government policy, with the White Paper on Defence providing the policy framework for the next decade and beyond. My priority is to ensure that the Defence Forces have the necessary level of resources required to fulfil all the roles assigned to them by Government and to facilitate investment in essential equipment and infrastructure, as identified in the White Paper.
26. Deputy Eugene Murphy asked the Taoiseach and Minister for Defence the reason there is currently no gratuity or pension for members retiring from the Reserve Defence Forces despite the fact that members of similar organisations in other countries receive the same; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30287/16]
View answerIt is important to state at the outset that I hold the members of the Reserve Defence Force in very high regard, as do all my colleagues in Government. I have been hugely impressed by the work that volunteer members of the Reserve Defence Force undertake in their local communities in the context of Aid to the Civil Authorities during periods of flooding and other such events, and the pride and professionalism with which they carry out their numerous ceremonial duties especially throughout this year, the Centenary of the 1916 Rising.
Members of the Army Reserve and the Naval Service Reserve are volunteers who undertake training in their spare time. Much of the training is unpaid. However, provision is also made for members of the Reserve to avail of paid training. In that regard, the overall budget available in 2016 is set at €2.150 million, of which €2.068 million is allocated to paid training of Reserve members. This budget provides for 30,000 training mandays. This allocation provides a minimum of 7 days annual paid training for all effective members of the Reserve. It also provides for 14 days paid training for all additional personnel recruited to the Reserve Defence Force in 2016 and for career and specialist courses for selected members of the Reserve. The allocation also includes provision for RDF participation in 2016 commemoration ceremonial parades and events.
Members of the Army Reserve and the Naval Service Reserve are not employed or engaged under a contract of employment. A contract of employment stipulates the hours of work, hours of attendance or other related matters normally associated with the concept of gainful employment. Furthermore, service with the Army Reserve and Naval Service Reserve is not pensionable under the Army Pension Schemes. For these reasons, it has been the long-standing policy that neither gratuities nor pensions are paid to members of the Reserve when they leave and there are no plans to change this position.
It would not be appropriate for me to comment on the situation regarding gratuity or pension payments to military reserve members in other jurisdictions. That is a matter for the relevant governments to decide upon, within their specific policy operational, budgetary and legal circumstances.
In conclusion, I am satisfied with the current financial provision for the Reserve in terms of mandays allowance. This allowance ensures that there are sufficient paid training opportunities available to members of the Reserve. These training opportunities, in turn, allow Reserve personnel to fulfil the roles allocated to them, as set out in the 2015 White Paper on Defence.
27. Deputy Mick Wallace asked the Taoiseach and Minister for Defence if he will consider the use of Shannon airport by the military of the United States of America to be a breach of military neutrality and other policies under the defence portfolio; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33815/16]
View answerThe Government’s 2015 review of foreign policy and the Defence White Paper reconfirmed that Ireland will continue to maintain its traditional policy of military neutrality which means non-membership of military alliances and non-participation in common or mutual defence arrangements. Ireland's policy of military neutrality was formed in an era when inter-State conflict was the key issue of national security for most States. The State’s policy of remaining outside of military alliances has remained in place ever since. Thankfully, the threat of inter-State war in Europe is much diminished, but there will continue to be new and emerging threats in the defence and security environment. However, Ireland’s traditional policy of military neutrality should not be confused with isolationism. We may refrain from membership of military alliances but we are committed to international peace and security and our Defence Forces have stood robustly for this in many peacekeeping missions.
The issue of overflights by foreign military aircraft and the use of Shannon by foreign military aircraft are the responsibility of the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade. However, the Deputy will be aware that successive Governments have made overflight and landing facilities available at Shannon Airport to the United States for well over 50 years. These arrangements do not amount to any form of military alliance with the US and are governed by strict conditions, applied to ensure compatibility with our traditional policy of military neutrality.
Finally, it goes without saying that all our policy responses must realistically reflect current and future security challenges and should be able to accommodate the necessary responses, both national and collective without prejudice to our policy of military neutrality.
28. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Taoiseach and Minister for Defence the extent to which the strength of the Army, Naval Service, Air Corps and reserves has fluctuated in the past ten years; if any changes in recruitment practice is envisaged to address any issues emerging; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33782/16]
View answerThe following tabular statement outlines the extent to which the whole-time equivalent strength of the Army, Naval Service and Air Corps has fluctuated over the last ten years.
As of the 30th September, 2016, the strength of the PDF (whole-time equivalent) was 9,044 personnel. The Government is committed to maintaining the stabilised strength of the Permanent Defence Force at 9,500 personnel, comprising of 7,520 Army, 886 Air Corps and 1,094 Naval Service as stated in the 2015 White Paper on Defence.
The manpower requirement of the Defence Forces is monitored on an ongoing basis in accordance with the operational requirements of each of the three services. Personnel are posted on the basis of operational needs across the organisation both at home and abroad. As there is significant turnover of personnel in the Permanent Defence Force targeted recruitment takes place so as to maintain personnel numbers at or near the agreed strength levels.
All efforts are currently being directed at recruitment in order to return the Defence Forces to their approved establishment. Regular competitions are held for recruitment of enlisted personnel, cadets and other staff.
To reduce the number of occasions an applicant must present in a military installation during a General Service competition, the Defence Forces are now conducting fitness tests and competency based interviews on the same day.
The following tabular statement (Table 2) sets out the extent to which the effective strength of the Reserve has fluctuated over the last ten years.
In terms of the Reserve, the 2015 White Paper on Defence sets out a developmental path for the organisation. It also provides that the overarching establishment of the Army Reserve (AR) and Naval Service Reserve (NSR) is to be set at 4,169 personnel, consisting of 3,869 Army Reservists and for the expansion of the establishment of the four NSR Units from currently 200 personnel to 300.
A key challenge is to recruit and train sufficient personnel to meet the Reserve establishment provided in the White Paper. I am committed to accelerating induction into the Reserve, in tandem with expanded recruitment into the PDF.
Table 1 – PDF Strength Fluctuation
|
Year |
Army |
Naval Service |
Air Corps |
Total |
Approved Strength |
|
2006 |
8532 |
1082 |
865 |
10479 |
|
|
2007 |
8512 |
1077 |
845 |
10434 |
|
|
2008 |
8507 |
1070 |
832 |
10409 |
|
|
2009 |
8095 |
1031 |
807 |
9933 |
|
|
2010 |
7752 |
1032 |
766 |
9550 |
|
|
2011 |
7650 |
997 |
791 |
9438 |
|
|
2012 |
7510 |
1058 |
791 |
9359 |
|
|
*2013 |
7434 |
1023 |
779 |
9236 |
|
|
2014 |
7457 |
1057 |
766 |
9280 |
|
|
2015 |
7309 |
1083 |
748 |
9140 |
|
|
2016 (to end Sept) |
7247 |
1079 |
718 |
9044 |
|
* Strength figures from 2013 on are Whole Time Equivalents
Table 2 – RDF Strength Fluctuation
|
Year |
Reserve Defence Force |
Approved Strength |
|
2006 |
9134 |
|
|
2007 |
8408 |
|
|
2008 |
7671 |
|
|
2009 |
6644 |
|
|
2010 |
6083 |
|
|
2011 |
5220 |
|
|
2012 |
4978 * |
|
|
2013 |
3655 * |
|
|
2014 |
2302 |
|
|
2015 |
2280 |
|
|
2016 (to end Sept) |
2095 |
|
* 2012 & 2013 – Due to the reorganisation of the Reserve Defence Force there is a significantly larger margin of error applicable to these figures.
29. Deputy Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Taoiseach and Minister for Defence if he will provide a report on the meeting of EU defence ministers in Bratislava on 26 September 2016; the issues discussed; and if it was made clear at that meeting that Ireland would oppose all attempts to create a standing EU army and that Irish neutrality is non negotiable. [33653/16]
View answerAs Dáil and Government business precluded my attendance at the informal meeting of EU Defence Ministers in Bratislava which was held on the 26th and 27th of September, I was represented by the Secretary General of the Department of Defence. This was an informal meeting and as such no decisions were made on any matter. There was an exchange of views on the implementation of the EU Global Strategy on Foreign and Security Policy (EUGS). The High Representative of the European Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, Ms. Frederica Mogherini, provided a progress report on the ongoing work of drafting an implementation plan on the security and defence elements of the EUGS, which is due to be presented to Member States at the Foreign Affairs Council, including Defence Ministers, taking place in Brussels on the 14th and 15th of November. The Commission also provided an update on progress on the development of the European Defence Action Plan which is expected to be presented to Member States before the end of this year.
Ministers also exchanged views on the implementation of the Joint EU-NATO Declaration made recently at the Warsaw Summit, which highlights areas where the EU and NATO can undertake practical cooperation in support of international peace and security, international crisis management operations and the protection of civilians. These areas include countering hybrid threats; broadening cooperation on maritime security and migration; expanding cooperation on cyber defence; developing coherent, complementary and interoperable defence capabilities; facilitating a stronger defence industry and defence research; stepping up coordination on exercises and supporting countries in building their defence and security capabilities.
There were also discussions on ongoing Common Security and Defence Policy (CSDP) missions and operations with a focus on the Mediterranean Naval CSDP mission, 'Operation Sophia' and CSDP missions in the Sahel. The situation in Libya was also briefly discussed.
There are no proposals to create a standing EU army and this did not feature in any discussions. It is worth once again reiterating that the Treaty of Lisbon does not provide for the creation of a European army.
30. Deputy Mick Barry asked the Taoiseach and Minister for Defence if his Department will match the offers made by the Department of Justice and Equality to settle the Garda pay dispute to the representative organisations of the Defence Forces; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33822/16]
View answerRates of remuneration and conditions of employment in the Irish public sector have traditionally been set by reference to relative levels of pay across the various sectors of the Irish public sector. In this regard, the level of remuneration in the Defence sector has maintained relativity with the levels available in other related public sector employments. The Deputy will be aware that the Financial Emergency Measures in the Public Interest Acts of 2009-2015 and the Public Service Stability Agreement 2013-2018 (Lansdowne Road Agreement) currently define the pay policy for public servants.
The Deputy may be aware that PDFORRA (Representative Association) have yet to ballot their members in relation to the terms of the Public Service Stability Agreement 2013-2018 (Lansdowne Road Agreement).
I am advised that PDFORRA raised a number of issues on which it sought clarification in advance of balloting its members on the agreement. These are issues of interpretation and technical issues on the savings to be achieved through the agreement rather than substantive issues of principle.
I can confirm that PDFORRA members are complying fully with all of their obligations under the public service pay agreements and the commitments they entered into in those agreements. PDFORRA has not repudiated the LRA.
Officials from my Department and PDFORRA are actively working through these issues in a very positive and collaborative process within the C&A Scheme which points to the effectiveness of the scheme as a dynamic process for resolving IR issues.
In terms of remuneration going forward, the new Public Service Pay Commission (PSPC), recently announced by my colleague the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform, has been tasked with providing objective analysis and advice on the most appropriate pay levels for the public service, including the Defence Forces.
As the outstanding issues are currently being resolved within the Department of Defence Conciliation and Arbitration Scheme it would not be appropriate for me to comment further at this time.
31. Deputy Mick Wallace asked the Taoiseach and Minister for Defence the cost of the Defence Forces at Shannon airport, in relation to protection given to civilian troop carriers and military planes of the United States of America and any other foreign military, for the year 2016 to date; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33814/16]
View answerThe Department of Justice and Equality and An Garda Síochána have primary responsibility for the internal security of the State. Among the roles assigned to the Defence Forces in the White Paper on Defence is the provision of Aid to the Civil Power (ATCP) which, in practice, means to assist An Garda Síochána when requested to do so.
Since 5th February 2003, the Gardaí have requested support from the Defence Forces at Shannon Airport as required. The cost incurred by the Defence Forces, in relation to protection given to civilian troop carriers and military planes of the United States of America and those of any other foreign military at Shannon Airport, for the year 2016 to date is €153,970.09.
I am satisfied that there is ongoing and close liaison between both An Garda Síochána and the Defence Forces, and between my Department and the Department of Justice and Equality regarding security matters generally, including the Defence Forces ATCP roles.
32. Deputy Fiona O'Loughlin asked the Taoiseach and Minister for Defence the recruitment measures that have been employed to deal with the shortage of medical officers in the Defence Forces; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33846/16]
View answerI am advised that Department Officials are currently finalising Terms & Conditions in consultation with RACO (Representative Association of Commissioned Officers) in relation to the recruitment of external Medical Officers. In addition, a new scheme for training medical graduates in military medicine is currently being finalised.
Terms & Conditions for suitably qualified members of the Permanent Defence Force to fill Medical Officer positions are also currently under discussion within the Conciliation & Arbitration Scheme. The Deputy will appreciate that as discussions under the Scheme are confidential to that process, it would be inappropriate for me to make any comment at this time.
33. Deputy Gino Kenny asked the Taoiseach and Minister for Defence if he will consider launching a full investigation into possible negative health effects of drugs used on members of the Defence Forces; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33817/16]
View answerAt the outset, I want to assure the Deputy that the military authorities and I place high priority on the health and welfare of the men and women of the Defence Forces.
The provision of medicines is an integral part of the medical service provided to members of the Defence Forces. I am informed that the range of medications used by the Defence Forces, and the effects of those medications, is kept under review by the Medical Corps. It is the policy of the Defence Forces’ Medical Corps to follow best practice in relation to prescribing and dispensing all medicines to members of the Defence Forces. I am informed that all drugs are prescribed in accordance with the manufacturer’s guidelines/instructions.
In the circumstances, I am satisfied with the controls surrounding the prescribing and dispensing of drugs in the Defence Forces and I have no plans to launch an investigation into possible negative effects of prescribed drugs on members of the Defence Forces.
34. Deputy Brendan Ryan asked the Taoiseach and Minister for Defence his views on the levels of recruitment to the Defence Forces; his further views on whether the levels of recruitment are matching the levels of persons leaving or retiring from the Defence Forces; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33829/16]
View answer204. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Taoiseach and Minister for Defence the extent to which further recruitments in the Defence Forces might be required; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34019/16]
View answerI propose to take Questions Nos. 34 and 204 together.
The Government is committed to maintaining the stabilised strength of the Permanent Defence Force at 9,500 personnel, comprising of 7,520 Army, 886 Air Corps and 1,094 Naval Service as stated in the 2015 White Paper on Defence. I am advised by the Military Authorities that the strength of the Permanent Defence Force, at 30 September 2016, was 9,044, comprising 7,247 Army, 718 Air Corps and 1,079 Naval Service. These figures exclude 68 personnel who are on secondment/career break.
The manpower requirement of the Defence Forces is monitored on an ongoing basis in accordance with the operational requirements of each of the three services.
Personnel are posted on the basis of operational needs across the organisation both at home and abroad and not on a regional basis. As there is significant turnover of personnel in the Permanent Defence Force targeted recruitment has been and is currently taking place so as to maintain the agreed strength levels.
I am advised by the Military Authorities that 372 General Service Recruits have been enlisted into the Army and 47 General Service Recruits have been enlisted into the Naval Service, to date in 2016. It is envisaged that there will be a total intake of circa 700 inductees to the Defence Force, consisting of General Service Recruits and Cadets, in 2016. This year some 99 Cadets have been inducted into the Defence Forces.
I am further advised that 56 Reserve Defence Force Recruits have been enlisted to date in 2016. A recruitment campaign for the Reserve Defence Force is currently underway and further details are available on www.military.ie.
The intake of Cadets into the Permanent Defence Force is normally carried out on an annual basis, taking into consideration the operational requirements of the Defence Forces and the resource envelope allocated to Defence. The 2016 Cadetship campaign is now closed and the total number of Cadets inducted from this competition is 99 comprising 72 Army, 15 Naval Service and 12 Air Corps.
With the support of the Chief of Staff and within the resources available, it is intended to retain the capacity of the Defence Forces to operate effectively across all roles and to undertake the tasks laid down by Government both at home and overseas.
35. Deputy Bríd Smith asked the Taoiseach and Minister for Defence the cost to the Army for guarding Shannon airport in 2015; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33823/16]
View answerThe Department of Justice and Equality and An Garda Síochána have primary responsibility for the internal security of the State. Among the roles assigned to the Defence Forces in the White Paper on Defence 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 costs incurred in the provision of ATCP support by the Defence Forces to An Garda Síochána at Shannon airport in 2015 was €180,814.21. The costs comprise payment of Security Duty Allowance, provision of rations, and fuel.
36. Deputy Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Taoiseach and Minister for Defence if he will rule out the future procurement of any Israeli technology through the European Defence Agency for use by the Defence Forces; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33656/16]
View answerThe primary purpose for the procurement of defensive equipment by the Department of Defence is to enhance the capability of the Irish Defence Forces and to afford the greatest possible force protection to Irish troops on overseas Peace Support Operations.
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. Central to those procedures is the requirement to allow fair competition between suppliers through the submission of tenders following advertising of the tender competition on the e-tenders site and on the Official Journal of the European Union (OJEU) where appropriate in accordance with the relevant EU procurement directives, including the Directive on the procurement of Defence and Security equipment.
Such tender competitions are open to any individual company or country in accordance with the terms of all UN, OSCE and EU arms embargos or restrictions. There are no such restrictions or embargos in place on Israel or Israeli companies. Tender competitions are held in accordance with the EU Code of Conduct on Export Controls.
Ireland has participated in the European Defence Agency since it was established in 2004. The primary reason for Ireland’s participation in the European Defence Agency is to support the development of Defence Forces capabilities for peacekeeping and international crisis management operations. Ireland’s ongoing participation in the EDA is designed to enable the Defence Forces to participate in leading edge projects and have access to the latest technologies in relation to relevant military capabilities which will support their ongoing participation in international peace support and crisis management operations. Ireland also supports the European Defence Agency in its role in the development of a more competitive and efficient defence industry which could reduce the cost of equipment procurement to the Defence Forces.
The Government's White Paper on Defence, published in August 2015, states "Procurement approaches will be developed … through more robust planning, more collaborative/joint procurement through direct engagement with other countries or through the European Defence Agency…". To date Ireland has not conducted any procurement through the European Defence Agency but my Department continues to explore potential opportunities that the Agency can offer.
37. Deputy Fiona O'Loughlin asked the Taoiseach and Minister for Defence the current effective strength of the Permanent Defence Forces in terms of the actual numbers of trained personnel available for operational taskings on a daily basis; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33847/16]
View answerThe strength of the Permanent Defence Force (PDF) is calculated in terms of whole-time equivalents. This data is collated on a monthly basis. As of the 30th September, 2016, the strength of the PDF (whole-time equivalent) was 9,044 personnel. Of this figure, 175 are recruits and 160 are cadets, meaning there are 8,709 operationally available personnel.
The Government is committed to maintaining the stabilised strength of the Permanent Defence Force at 9,500 personnel, which includes personnel in training, comprising of 7,520 Army, 886 Air Corps and 1,094 Naval Service as stated in the 2015 White Paper on Defence.
The manpower requirement of the Defence Forces is monitored on an ongoing basis in accordance with the operational requirements of each of the three services. Personnel are posted on the basis of operational needs across the organisation both at home and abroad. Members of the Defence Forces are assigned to specific units, which are stationed at various military installations throughout the country, each having a defined area of taskings in line with the roles of the Defence Forces outlined in the White Paper.
With the support of the Chief of Staff, I am confident that we shall retain the capacity of the Defence Forces to operate effectively across all roles and to undertake the tasks assigned by Government, both at home and overseas.
38. Deputy Brendan Ryan asked the Taoiseach and Minister for Defence his views on the fact that 20% of Defence Forces personnel are in receipt of family income supplement; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33826/16]
View answerRates of remuneration and conditions of employment in each part of the Irish public sector have traditionally been set by reference to levels of pay available in related public sector employments. In this regard, the level of remuneration in the Defence sector has maintained relativity with the levels available in other related public sector employments.
I fully appreciate that many of our citizens are facing difficulties in the current environment, including members of the Defence Forces. The Government is making every effort, within available resources, to support all those who face hardship. In addition, there are various schemes in place through the Department of Social Protection, including Family Income Supplement, to support those on low incomes.
The circumstances surrounding an application for Family Income Supplement, or indeed any other scheme operated by the Department of Social Protection, is a private matter between the applicant and the Department of Social Protection. I am, therefore, not aware of the eligibility of individual members of the Permanent Defence Force to receive such allowances, or the total numbers of Defence Force members that may be in receipt of this financial support. Various factors can give rise to such claims. However, the important thing is that, despite the difficult economic environment we have witnessed over the last few years, the Government has maintained this important safety net for families who by virtue of their particular circumstances require such financial support.
39. Deputy Paul Murphy asked the Taoiseach and Minister for Defence if he will report on discussions held with his European counterparts regarding further military co-operation; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33820/16]
View answerAs Dáil and Government business precluded my attendance at the informal meeting of EU Defence Ministers in Bratislava which was held on the 26th and 27th of September, I was represented by the Secretary General of the Department of Defence. This was an informal meeting and as such no decisions were made.
There was an exchange of views on the implementation of the EU Global Strategy on Foreign and Security Policy (EUGS). The High Representative of the European Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, Ms. Frederica Mogherini, provided a progress report on the ongoing work of drafting an implementation plan on the security and defence elements of the EUGS, which is due to be presented to Member States at the Foreign Affairs Council, including Defence Ministers, taking place in Brussels on the 14th and 15th of November. The Commission also provided an update on progress on the development of the European Defence Action Plan which is expected to be presented to Member States before the end of this year.
Ministers also exchanged views on the implementation of the Joint EU-NATO Declaration made recently at the Warsaw Summit, which highlights areas where the EU and NATO can undertake practical cooperation in support of international peace and security, international crisis management operations and the protection of civilians. These areas include countering hybrid threats; broadening cooperation on maritime security and migration; expanding cooperation on cyber defence; developing coherent, complementary and interoperable defence capabilities; facilitating a stronger defence industry and defence research; stepping up coordination on exercises and supporting countries in building their defence and security capabilities.
There were also discussions on ongoing Common Security and Defence Policy (CSDP) missions and operations with a focus on the Mediterranean Naval CSDP mission, 'Operation Sophia' and CSDP missions in the Sahel. The situation in Libya was also briefly discussed.
40. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Taoiseach and Minister for Defence the extent to which the Naval Service has to date been instrumental in rescuing refugees in the Mediterranean; the total number rescued to date; if it is expected to expand or extend such missions; if he has satisfied himself that the processing of such refugees after rescue has been as efficient as it could or should be; if any changes might be contemplated in this regard; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33781/16]
View answerFollowing a Government Decision on 12 May 2015, the Irish Naval Vessel, L.É. Eithne, was deployed to the Mediterranean on 16 May, 2015, to assist the Italian Authorities with the migrant crisis. During 2015 two further vessels were deployed, L.É. Niamh and L.É. Samuel Beckett, and the deployment was completed on 29 November 2015. During that period 8,592 people were rescued in the Mediterranean by Irish Naval Vessels.
The Government, on 6 April 2016, approved the return of an Irish Naval vessel to undertake humanitarian search and rescue tasks in the Mediterranean. During 2016 there have been three Naval vessels deployed to the Mediterranean. The L.É. Róisín was deployed from 1 May to 15 July and L.É. James Joyce from 8 July to 30 September. L.É. Samuel Beckett was deployed on 23 September and will remain in the area of operations until the end of November. To date in 2016 a total of 6,162 people have been rescued by Irish Naval Vessels. In total, Irish participation in the humanitarian mission has resulted in the recovery of over 14,700 migrants, to date, which clearly demonstrates the value of Ireland’s involvement in this important humanitarian response.
Once the rescued migrants have been brought to the disembarkation points at the designated locations in Italy, the Italian authorities are responsible for the registration and identification of the migrants and for the processing of any applications made for asylum. The European Asylum Support Office is assisting the Italian authorities in this regard.
The question of further deployment to the operation in the Mediterranean in 2017 will be considered in the context of the ongoing situation in the Mediterranean and the overall EU response thereto, the demands on the Defence Forces, our overseas commitments and available resources.
41. Deputy Brendan Ryan asked the Taoiseach and Minister for Defence if he is examining the benefits of the drug doxycycline as a potential replacement for Lariam as an anti-malaria drug; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33830/16]
View answer46. Deputy Fiona O'Loughlin asked the Taoiseach and Minister for Defence his views on making Lariam the drug of last resort when prescribing anti-malarial medication for members of the Defence Forces; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33849/16]
View answer47. Deputy Brendan Ryan asked the Taoiseach and Minister for Defence the medical basis, and any other basis, on which he chooses to continue the use of the anti-malaria drug Lariam for the Defence Forces; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33827/16]
View answerI propose to take Questions Nos. 41, 46 and 47 together.
The health and welfare of the men and women of the Defence Forces is a high priority for both myself and the Defence Forces.
Malaria is a serious disease which killed approximately 438,000 people in 2015, with 90% of deaths occurring in sub-Saharan Africa as reported by the World Health Organization. It is a serious threat to any military force operating in the area.
Where malaria has been identified as a risk in a particular mission area, the choice of chemoprophylaxis medication is dependent on a number of factors including the type of malaria in the destination, resistance to particular drugs, the profile of the traveller (contraindications, underlying health conditions, purpose of travel), the duration of travel and adherence issues.
The United Nations' recent Medical Support Manual 2015, which is to serve as a standard reference document on medical support aspects of United Nations peacekeeping operations and political missions in the field provides that anti-malarial medicines can be used to prevent malaria. It does not make any recommendations as to which chemoprophylaxis should be used but rather makes reference to the World Health Organization (WHO) International Travel and Health Handbook for the latest information on malaria chemophylaxis.
The WHO Handbook provides for a range of anti-malarials which includes mefloquine (Lariam). The WHO Handbook notes that there are specific contraindications and possible side-effects for ALL anti-malarial drugs. I am advised that the Defence Forces Medical Policy on the use of malaria chemoprophylaxis (including the use of Lariam) is in line with the United Nations (UN) and World Health Organization (WHO) guidelines.
The choice of medication for overseas deployment for both officers and enlisted personnel, including the use of Lariam, is a medical decision made by Medical Officers in the Defence Forces, having regard to the specific circumstances of the mission and the individual member of the Defence Forces. Significant precautions are taken by Defence Forces Medical Officers in assessing the medical suitability of members of our Defence Forces to take any of the anti-malarial medications. It is the policy of the Defence Forces that personnel are individually screened for medical fitness for service overseas and medical suitability to be prescribed the necessary malaria chemoprophylactic agent.
There are three anti-malarial drugs, in use in the Defence Forces, Lariam (Mefloquine); Malarone and Doxycycline.
In the case of Doxycycline and Malarone, I am advised there are specific reasons as to why they are not the drug of choice for use by the Defence Forces on typical deployments in sub-Saharan Africa.
Doxycycline has to be taken in the absence of dairy products for maximum efficacy. It can cause troublesome, mainly gastrointestinal side-effects, it can also produce sun-sensitivity skin rashes (akin to severe sun burn) in some individuals. This is particularly significant when used in very sunny climes.
Malarone: 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. On this basis the Defence Forces policy, to use Malarone up to the 27 day limit, remains unchanged. It should be noted that the majority of Defence Forces deployments to sub-Saharan Africa are for periods exceeding 28 days.
In the context of a military environment, the dosing regimen is also a considering factor. Lariam has the advantage of being taken weekly, minimising the dangers of a missed dose exposing the individual to contracting malaria. Doxycycline and Malarone have to be taken daily. Missing a daily dose can expose the individual to higher risk of contracting malaria. This is why Lariam is, in most circumstances, the drug of choice within the available options that minimises the risk of contracting malaria in sub-Saharan Africa where the predominant species of malaria is the virulent Plasmodium Falciparum. However, it should be noted that in Afghanistan, Doxycyline is the anti-malarial chemoprohphylactic agent of choice where the predominant species of malaria is the less virulent Plasmodium Vivax.
In this context and having regard to the constraints associated with the alternative drugs, this is why we do not deploy personnel in the first instance who have shown a sensitivity or contraindication to Lariam to sub-Saharan Africa.
However, if for operational reasons it was imperative that an individual deploy immediately without the normal “lead-in” time which is required for Lariam, or an individual who had previously demonstrated sensitivity to Lariam, or had a contraindication to its use, who had a specific skills set which was fundamental to mission success, then one of the other alternative medications would be used. The risk to benefit ratio is a determining factor in recommendations from the Director of Medical Branch permitting use of these medications.
If, during the course of deployment, an individual developed sensitivity to Lariam, he/she would be advised to cease taking the medication and substitute it with a “second line” chemprophylactic agent. The individual would continue to be monitored and ultimately if serious enough, repatriation could be necessary.
Anti-malarial medications, including Lariam, remain in the formulary of medications prescribed by the Medical Corps for Defence Forces personnel on appropriate overseas missions, to ensure that our military personnel can have effective protection from the very serious risks posed by this highly dangerous disease.
There are no plans to withdraw Lariam from the range of anti-malarial medications available to the Defence Forces. The use of and the information on medications is kept under ongoing review.
42. Deputy Paul Murphy asked the Taoiseach and Minister for Defence if he will report on discussions held with PDFORRA regarding the ongoing use of Larium; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33819/16]
View answerAt the request of PDFORRA, officials from my Department and the Director of the Defence Forces Medical Branch recently met with PDFORRA to outline the medical policy in relation to the use of malaria chemoprophylaxis in the Defence Forces.
I am advised, as were PDFORRA, that the Defence Forces Medical Policy on the use of malaria chemoprophylaxis (including the use of Lariam) is in line with the United Nations (UN) and World Health Organization (WHO) guidelines.
The use of and the information on medications is kept under ongoing review. There are no plans to withdraw Lariam from the range of anti-malarial medications available to the Defence Forces.
43. Deputy Clare Daly asked the Taoiseach and Minister for Defence if he will publish the records maintained by the Air Corps on the numbers, country of origin and types of foreign military aircraft that were given permission to land at Casement Aerodrome from 2010 to date in 2016; and the reason for these permissions. [33812/16]
View answerI am advised by the Military Authorities that the number of foreign military aircraft that landed at Casement Aerodrome in the period from January 2010 to date is set out in the following tabular statement:
|
Year |
Country of Origin |
Number |
|
2010 |
France |
11 |
|
|
Poland |
4 |
|
|
UK |
2 |
|
|
USA |
7 |
|
Year |
Country of Origin |
Number |
|
2011 |
Belgium |
1 |
|
|
Italy |
1 |
|
|
Monaco |
2 |
|
|
UK |
6 |
|
|
USA |
21 |
|
Year |
Country of Origin |
Number |
|
2012 |
Germany |
1 |
|
|
Netherlands |
2 |
|
|
Poland |
1 |
|
|
UK |
2 |
|
|
USA |
31 |
|
Year |
Country of Origin |
Number |
|
2013 |
Belgium |
1 |
|
|
Iceland |
1 |
|
|
Poland |
6 |
|
|
UK |
4 |
|
|
USA |
18 |
|
Year |
Country of Origin |
Number |
|
2014 |
UK |
3 |
|
|
USA |
4 |
|
Year |
Country of Origin |
Number |
|
2015 |
Portugal |
1 |
|
|
Switzerland |
9 |
|
|
UK |
4 |
|
|
USA |
4 |
|
Year |
Country of Origin |
Number |
|
2016 (to date) |
Italy |
17 |
|
|
Sweden |
6 |
|
|
UK |
14 |
|
|
USA |
2 |
It may be noted that the Military Authorities have advised that the above figures reflect the up-to-date position having re-examined the aircraft landing records. It should also be noted that these figures reflect the number of foreign military aircraft that landed at Casement Aerodrome rather than the number of permissions granted.
The reasons permission was granted for these landings include crew training, aircraft refuelling, maintenance, transporting dignitaries or high level officials participating in visits to Ireland and air show participation.
In accordance with the legislative requirements of the Air Navigation (Foreign Military Aircraft) Order 1952, all foreign military aircraft wishing to overfly or land in the State require the permission of the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade. A request is received by the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade from the relevant embassy of the visiting/overflying foreign aircraft. This request is then forwarded to a number of parties including the Department of Defence and the Department of Justice and Equality for observations and confirmation that the aircraft can be facilitated for landing at Casement Aerodrome.
