asked the Minister for Defence if, in view of the danger which may be caused, arising out of floating mines now adrift off the coast of this country, he is satisfied that adequate precautions are being taken to prevent a recurrence of damage, similar to that at Dalkey, County Dublin; and, if not, if he will ensure that adequate precautions will be taken forthwith.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Precautions Against Drifting Mine Damage.
It is not possible to ensure against a repetition of the occurrence which took place recently at Dalkey as, during the hours of darkness, a mine may be carried a long distance without being detected, and, accordingly, no absolute freedom from a recurrence of the danger, to which the Deputy refers, can be guaranteed.
The only available method of detecting the presence of mines is that afforded by residents along the coast, fishermen and seafaring people who, when floating mines are observed, notify the nearest Gárda station.
If notification is given of the existence of mines, is the Army Ordnance Corps available at short notice for dismantling the mines?
Yes, at reasonably short notice. They have in fact destroyed as many as 998 mines on such information.
Would the Minister not consider the payment of a number of coast watchers for the next 12 months?
We have just demobilised the coast watching service.
Would it not be worth while doing so? They are available.