Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 25 March 2004
35 Mr. Sherlock asked the Minister for Defence if the Defence Forces have been asked to provide support for the Garda during the planned visit of President George Bush to Ireland; the role he expects the Defence Forces to play; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [9267/04]
Amharc ar fhreagra37 Mr. Gormley asked the Minister for Defence if he has satisfied himself that the Defence Forces can adequately protect the US President Bush and the EU heads of State at several different locations simultaneously during the upcoming EU-US summit in June 2004; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [9303/04]
Amharc ar fhreagraI propose to take Questions Nos. 35 and 37 together.
The Garda Síochána has the primary responsibility for law and order, including the protection of the internal security of the State. Among the roles assigned to the Defence Forces is the provision of aid to the civil power — meaning in practice to assist, when requested, the Garda Síochána. Duties include the protection and guarding of vital installations, the provision of certain security escorts etc.
The level and demand for Defence Forces assistance depends on ongoing security assessments undertaken by the Garda. The Defence Forces and the Garda have ongoing consultations on such issues as a matter of course. There has been extensive prior planning by the Garda and the Defence Forces in the conduct of security for the visit of EU heads of State and specific roles and areas of responsibility have been identified for the Defence Forces. The planning process for the proposed visit by President Bush is in the early stages. However, in the event of a request being made by the Garda for security support, the Defence Forces will render such assistance as may be appropriate. Obviously it would not be appropriate for me to comment on the specific security arrangements for either event at this time.
