asked the Minister for Defence if the Army has carried out any investigation into reports that a meeting between a serving British army officer and a member of the Garda, was held in the home of a serving Army officer in Dublin in August 1974; the outcome of the investigation; the action, if any, taken as a result of the investigation; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Meeting of British and Irish Officers.
6.
(Limerick West): It is not the practice to disclose information involving matters of a security nature.
Is the Minister prepared to advise us as to whether there has been any investigation into the matter disclosing the detail of that investigation if he considers it sensitive from the point of view of security? The House is entitled to be at least advised whether there has been any investigation into the reports that have emanated from national Press.
(Limerick West): I am not responsible for what appears in the national Press. This is a security matter and it is not appropriate to comment on these matters. An investigation into the reports referred to is not a matter primarily for my Department.
Where it is brought to the Minister's attention by responsible reports in the national media that a member of the armed forces for which he has responsibility may have been involved in what would seem an illegal meeting that may have had implications of an illegal nature, at least he should advise the House whether there has been any investigation by the Department.
(Limerick West): I have already outlined to the Deputy that it is not a matter for my Department. If the Deputy requires information he should put a question to the appropriate Minister.