Vol. 571 No. 1
1112 Mr. F. McGrath asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he has satisfied himself with the operation of foreign security services with the State and their constant threat to democratic institutions. [19765/03]
1113 Mr. F. McGrath asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he is satisfied that all members of the Garda special branch have put the interest of their country first in dealing with all aspects of State security; if there is evidence of elements being more loyal to foreign Governments; and the action he will take to prevent this situation worsening. [19766/03]
1115 Mr. F. McGrath asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if the C-3 State security force still exists within the Garda Síochána; and, if so, the role of this force in the security services. [19769/03]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 1112, 1113 and 1115 together.
In order to discharge their responsibilities in the fight against terrorism in global terms and in the context of their membership of EU and other international co-operation groups, the Garda Síochána liaises on a regular basis with security services from other countries and there are no grounds for concern in this regard.
As regards the question of the loyalty to the State of members of the Garda Síochána, I am not aware of the basis for the type of suggestion made by the Deputy. As a force, the Garda Síochána has shown exemplary loyalty – often at great personal cost – to the State. If the Deputy has any information whatsoever to suggest that any person, including any member of the Garda Síochána, is acting in breach of state security he should report the matter to the Commissioner of the Garda Síochána.
