asked the Minister for Defence if he will state the official procedure of the Government for the purchase, importation and storage of official State consignments of arms and equipment; and if he is satisfied that all members of the Cabinet and public officers are fully aware of these procedures.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Army Equipment.
108.
I assume that the Deputy is referring to the procurement of arms and equipment for the use of the Defence Forces. My Department enter into formal contracts with suppliers of the required items. Where importation of arms or ammunition is involved, my Department issue an authorisation under section 17 (8) of the Firearms Act, 1925 for each consignment entering the State. Arms and equipment for the Defence Forces are stored under strict military control.
I am satisfied that the officers of my Department and of the Defence Forces concerned with procurement are fully aware of the procedures.
I also asked the Minister if he was satisfied that all members of the Cabinet were fully aware of these procedures. Can the Minister confirm that?
For my part as Minister for Defence I am aware of it.
May I ask the Minister if there is any procedure whereby when a Member of the House becomes a Minister of State he is briefed on certain procedures to be adopted in matters of State security?
The Deputy does not have to worry about it.
Deputy Dowling is a long time there and he does not have to worry, but may I ask the Minister the question?
As Minister for Defence I am fully aware of the procedures necessary. I have been fully briefed on them.
Are other members of the Cabinet fully briefed?
Not necessarily. The Minister for Defence, as the Minister responsible, should be.