asked the Minister for Defence if he will make a statement in regard to the present position and the future of the FCA; if he considers that the FCA is an excellent organisation to co-operate with the Gardaí in maintaining law and order and safeguarding life and property; and if he will consider a reorganisation of this very important Force so that they may be available in every area if and when required by the Government for active service.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - FCA Reorganisation.
50.
The FCA is a class of the Reserve Defence Force. The Permanent Defence Force, the First Line Reserve and the FCA are integrated and are organised into a number of brigades. The organisation and role of the FCA, in common with the organisation and role of other elements of the Defence Forces, is continually under review.
The Defence Act, 1954 and regulations made thereunder enable the Minister for Defence to direct that reservists, including members of the FCA, be called out in aid of the civil power in the maintenance or restoration of the public peace.
The FCA are located throughout the State and are available throughout the State for permanent service or for service in aid of the civil power as may be required.
Does the Minister not consider that at the present time it is most desirable that special attention be paid to the FCA in view of the fact that they are a very valuable organisation in the event of danger to either life or property at any time? Would he take the necessary steps to see that, in the national interest, there would be the fullest possible co-operation between the police authorities and the FCA?
The members of the FCA live mainly as civilians but under the Defence Act, the power is there to enable them to be called out to assist the civil power.