Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 13 December 2016
693. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Taoiseach and Minister for Defence the extent to which the Defences Forces can be mobilised in the event of natural disasters, including flooding, in view of the preferability of early deployment and the need for the use of specified equipment in such situations; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [40152/16]
View answerMy priority as Minister for Defence is to ensure that the operational capacity of the Defence Forces is maintained to the greatest extent possible.
In relation to non-security related emergencies, whilst the Defence Forces are not a Principal Response Agency as defined in the Framework for Major Emergency Management, they provide the fullest possible assistance to the appropriate Principle Response Agency in the event of a natural disaster or emergency situation in the Aid to the Civil Authority (ATCA) role.
At National level, representation on the Government Task Force on Emergency Planning, by both my Department and the Defence Forces, ensures the fullest co-ordination and co-operation in the event of an emergency.
To facilitate support to the principal response agencies locally, the Defence Forces are also represented on the eight Regional Working Groups that have been established under the Framework and, on an ongoing basis, designated members of the Defence Forces, based around the country, act as Liaison Officers to Local Authorities. This facilitates effective planning and mobilisation when required.
I am satisfied that Defence Forces personnel have a modern and effective range of equipment to fulfill all roles that are assigned to them by Government.
