Whilst the Defence Forces are not a Principal Response Agency, as defined in the Framework for Major Emergency Management, they will continue to provide the fullest possible assistance to the appropriate lead Agency in the event of a severe weather emergency in an Aid to the Civil Authority (ATCA) role. In planning for the closure of Kickham Barracks, Clonmel, the existing boundaries between the 12th Infantry Battalion (headquartered in Limerick) and the 3rd Infantry Battalion (headquartered in Kilkenny) were realigned. As a result, the 3rd Infantry Battalion is now responsible for providing ATCA support in South Tipperary and West Waterford.
To formalise plans for the realignment, the Defence Forces recently met with the Health Service Executive (HSE), An Garda Síochána and the relevant local authorities. Detailed briefings have now taken place and key contacts established. Responses to previous severe weather events were also discussed as were contingency plans for possible future emergencies.
In terms of testing responses to potential emergencies, an air reconnaissance was recently conducted by the 3rd Infantry Battalion in their new area of responsibility in order to augment planning that has been carried out on the ground. I am satisfied that the adjustments made and the level of planning carried out as a result of the closure of Kickham Barracks will ensure that the Defence Forces will provide the fullest possible assistance if and when required to do so.