Frances Fitzgerald
Ceist:212 Ms Fitzgerald asked the Minister for Defence if he has reviewed Defence Forces involvement in security duties; the changes, if any, made in this regard; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5115/99]
Written Answers. - Defence Forces Duties.
The primary responsibility for internal security rests with the Garda Síochána. The Defence Forces, pursuant to their role of rendering aid to the civil power, assist the Garda as required. This entails assisting the Garda at roadblocks, checkpoints and searches, including in the Border area. The Defence Forces also assist the Garda in relation to prisoner, cash and explosives escorts.
The demands on the Defence Forces in relation to Border duty depend on the nature of the requests for assistance received from the Garda at any particular time. Currently these requests include the provision of armed parties in aid of the civil power for the purpose of protecting gardaí and the carrying out of such duties as vehicle checkpoints and mobile security patrols, specialist search team tasks and explosive ordnance disposal. The Defence Forces continue to respond to requests from the Garda in relation to Border security and other operations.
The level of demand on the Defence Forces in aid of the Garda in the Border area following on the Good Friday Agreement is kept under review in my Department in consultation with the relevant Government Departments as well as with the Garda authorities.