Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 24 January 2018
58. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Taoiseach and Minister for Defence the extent to which he remains satisfied regarding the ability of the Defence Forces to meet all emergencies; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3678/18]
View answerMy priority as Minister with Responsibility for Defence is to ensure that the operational capability of the Defence Forces is maintained to the greatest extent possible to enable the Army, Air Corps and Naval Service to carry out their roles as assigned by Government.
In relation to equipment, priorities for the Army, Air Corps and Naval Service are being considered in the context of the lifetime of the White Paper on Defence as part of the capability development and equipment planning process.
The primary function of training and education in the Defence Forces is to develop and maintain the capabilities necessary to deliver on the roles assigned by Government. Engagements with national and international educational institutions, military and civilian, aim to ensure that the Defence Forces retain currency with regards to best international practice and employ relevant modern training methods.
At National level, representation on the Government Task Force on Emergency Planning, by both the Department of Defence and the Defence Forces, ensures the fullest coordination and cooperation in the event of an emergency.
In accordance with the Framework for Major Emergency Management, primary responsibility for responding to emergencies such as severe weather events or terrorist attacks rests with the three designated principal response agencies, namely, the relevant Local Authority, An Garda Síochána, and the Health Service Executive. The Defence Forces provide the fullest possible support in the event of a natural disaster or emergency situation in its Aid to the Civil Authority and Aid to the Civil Power roles. Major Emergency Plans have been developed by local and regional authorities and these Plans identify the procedures for requesting assistance from the Defence Forces.
The Defence Forces retains a wide range of specialist skills and equipment, which can be deployed in such circumstances. The full spectrum of Defence Forces personnel and equipment are available for deployment in response to any emergencies that may arise.
I am committed to ensuring that the Defence Forces continue to be equipped and trained to best international standards and that this position is kept under on-going review.
