With your permission, a Cheann Comhairle, I propose to take Questions Nos. 39 and 40 together.
The Geneva Protocol of 1925 for the prohibition of the use in war of asphyxiating, poisonous or other gases, and of bacteriological methods of warfare was acceded to by the State on the 29th August, 1930 with a reservation as regards non-reciprocity.
The Protocol is still in force and is binding on the State.
I do not accept that there is considerable public indignation at the purchase of CS for the Army. Its purchase was not contrary to the provisions of the protocol nor would it be used in circumstances which would be in conflict with the State's accession to the protocol. As I have already stated, however, in reply to other questions on this subject, I am not prepared to speculate as to the circumstances in which CS might be used.