Eamon Gilmore
Ceist:9 Mr. Gilmore asked the Minister for Defence if he will review the adequacy of the transport facilities for the Army bomb disposal squads; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Army Bomb Disposal Squads.
The provision of vehicles for explosive ordnance disposal duties is kept under constant review. A number of vehicles were acquired specifically for this purpose in 1989 and it is intended to purchase additional vehicles in 1991.
Can the Minister tell us how many additional vehicles might be purchased — and that might end my questioning?
At present we have four vehicles and we are considering purchasing an additional two.
I am not too sure if we are talking about the same squads. My understanding is that while we have four good or new vehicles which were provided in 1989, there is still a shortfall of at least ten vehicles. Does the Minister maintain his Department keep this requirement under constant review — and I agree that they should? Given the importance of maintaining a mobile, active and versatile bomb disposal squad, how could the fleet be allowed to fall into the present level of disrepair?
I am surprised to hear Deputy McCartan say they have fallen into disrepair because, according to the information I have, that is not correct. This subject is given top priority by the military authorities and by the Department, and it is in that capacity that the Department have agreed the purchase of a further two vehicles as requested. There has not been a request or a suggestion that any more than two should be purchased. This matter will be given top priority. Any requirement in the security area is always treated as a priority by the Department.
Perhaps you might give me some latitude, a Cheann Comhairle, because there appears to be a degree of fencing with Members on this matter. How many of the current fleet are aged 12 years?
The Deputy is asking a number of specific questions which might better be pursued by way of separate questions.
I suspect there is a degree of evasion here.
The Chair has no knowledge of that.
I will simplify my question by way of a two-marker for the Minister of State. Can he tell us how many vehicles comprise the entire bomb disposal fleet?
I have already told the Deputy — four which were acquired in 1989.
That is a matter for comment.
That is the true position.
Four were bought in 1989.
Then the Deputy's informant is not giving him the correct information.
I am telling the Minister there are 14 in the fleet located in four separate locations.
Perhaps the Deputy should be over here.
The Minister of State is not doing so well.
I think I am doing extremely well.