Written Answers Nos. 507-525
507. Deputy Seán Ó Fearghaíl asked the Minister for Defence if he will provide an update on Ireland’s participation in the United Nations Disengagement Observer Force mission in the Golan Heights; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21721/15]
Amharc ar fhreagraAt the request of the United Nations, following Government and Dáil Éireann approval, a contingent of the Permanent Defence Force has been deployed to the United Nations Disengagement Observer Force (UNDOF) on the Golan Heights in Syria since 2013.
The current Irish contingent, the 48th Infantry Group, comprising 130 personnel, is based in UNDOF Headquarters in Camp Ziouani. It operates in the role of a Quick Reaction Force, which is on standby to assist with on-going operations within the UNDOF Area of Responsibility. Eight (8) other Defence Forces personnel are also deployed in UNDOF Headquarters, including the Deputy Force Commander, Brigadier General Anthony Hanlon.
Following the significant events in August 2014 in the area of separation, there was a fundamental realignment of the UNDOF mission with a view to minimizing unacceptable risks to peacekeepers, while continuing to implement the mission’s mandate. Most UNDOF personnel are now deployed on the Israeli side of the area of separation. The UN provides regular updates on the mission to the Security Council in this regard. The presence of the UNDOF mission remains an important element in ensuring stability on the Golan Heights and in the Middle East region. Participation by the Defence Forces in UNDOF is reviewed by the Government on an annual basis. On 17 June 2014, the Government approved continued participation in the UNDOF mission for a period of twelve months up to June 2015. I intend to bring proposals to Government in due course for the continued participation by the Defence Forces in the mission beyond June 2015, subject to the renewal of the UN authority for the mission.
508. Deputy Seán Ó Fearghaíl asked the Minister for Defence if he will provide a progress report on the current mission of the LÉ Eithne and its crew in the Mediterranean; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21722/15]
Amharc ar fhreagraAt a special meeting of the European Council on 23 April 2015, the Taoiseach announced that Ireland was prepared to allocate a fully crewed Naval vessel to assist in the humanitarian crisis in the Mediterranean once the legal clarifications were received. Following Government approval and agreement with the Italian authorities, the L.É. Eithne arrived in the South Central Mediterranean on 23 May 2015, to assist the Italian authorities in humanitarian search and rescue operations in the Mediterranean.
The role of the Irish Naval vessel is to provide a search and rescue capability and to undertake humanitarian rescue operations at sea in the Mediterranean. Assistance to persons in distress at sea is being provided in accordance with the applicable provisions of international conventions governing search and rescue situations. Co-ordination of search and rescue efforts and the provision of humanitarian assistance is being achieved through close co-operation with the Italian authorities.
L.É. Eithne is deployed on the high seas in international waters between Sicily and Libya, which is where most migrant activity and search and rescue incidents have occurred. The Irish naval vessel is working in co-ordination with European navies, including British, Italian and German naval forces. To date, L.É. Eithne has been involved in a number of rescue operations resulting in the rescue of approximately 1,160 migrants.
The despatch of the L.É. Eithne to assist the Italian authorities in this humanitarian search and rescue operation highlights the Government's commitment to assist with efforts to prevent further tragedy and loss of life at sea.
509. Deputy Seán Ó Fearghaíl asked the Minister for Defence if he will provide an update on the measures being taken to obtain justice for the families of persons (details supplied). [21723/15]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe matter to which the Deputy is referring is the case of the deaths of Private Thomas Barrett and Private Derek Smallhorne who were murdered, and Private John O'Mahony who was seriously injured while serving with the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) on 18 April 1980. In July 2014 the alleged perpetrator, Mr. Mahmoud Bazzi, who had been residing in the United States was arrested for administrative immigration violations. Following an immigration court hearing in August, the Judge ruled that Mr. Bazzi be deported to Lebanon. Mr Bazzi was deported from the United States to his native Lebanon on 30 January 2015. On arrival in Beirut, Mr. Bazzi was arrested and detained by the Lebanese authorities where he remains in custody.
The Irish Government have requested the support of the Lebanese Government in seeking justice for the murdered Irish UNIFIL peacekeepers, should such action be feasible. During my visit to the Lebanon last December, I met with the Lebanese authorities at the most senior levels of Government and highlighted the Irish Government’s continued commitment and interest in progressing this case.
It is now a matter for the Lebanese authorities to investigate the case and to determine any future action in accordance with their national legislation and judicial procedures. The Irish Ambassador in the region is continuing to monitor developments in the case and is in contact with the Department of Defence on a regular basis.
The Department of Defence is also maintaining contact with the Barrett and Smallhorne families in relation to the case.
510. Deputy Brendan Griffin asked the Minister for Defence if he will make military personnel available for a 2016 commemoration event (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21745/15]
Amharc ar fhreagraOverall responsibility for the 1916-2016 Centenary Programme rests with my colleague the Minister for Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht.
Following the formal launch of the Programme in March of this year by the Taoiseach and Minister Humphreys, my Department has been engaged in ongoing discussions in relation to the involvement of the Defence Forces in the various State events that are planned.
As part of the planning process for events being organised by community groups, each local authority has appointed a special co-ordinator to lead the development of the Centenary Programme within their county and to liaise with the Ireland 2016 Project Office which has been established within the Department of Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht. Details of local authority coordinators can be found at www.ireland.ie/community
Plans for community led events, such as that outlined in the details supplied, should be submitted in the first instance to the local authority co-ordinator. As part of this process, local authorities are to submit their programmes to the Ireland 2016 Project Office. Where Defence Forces participation is sought and considered appropriate, the Project Office will contact my Department and, having regard to the scale of commitments faced by the Defence Forces, a decision will then be taken regarding events that can be supported.
The extent to which the Defence Forces can participate in local events will be limited however due to the need to prioritise their involvement in the very significant number and range of State events and other initiatives that form part of the Centenary Programme.
511. Deputy Brendan Griffin asked the Minister for Defence when he will announce the new nominees to the General Assembly of the Irish Red Cross; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21746/15]
Amharc ar fhreagraArising from legislative changes made by this Government in 2012, Government may nominate up to 10% of the membership of the General Assembly of the Irish Red Cross Society.
On 20 May last, I received Government approval for the nomination of Ms Mary Flaherty and Mr. Darren Ryan to the Society's General Assembly for a three year term. The maximum number of Government nominees is three and I anticipate that a third appointment will be made shortly.
512. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Defence the extent to which the strength of the Defence Forces has fluctuated in the past three years to date; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22392/15]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe strength figures for year end to 31 December 2104 are set out below. I wish to advise the Deputy that the strength figure for 2012 includes personnel who were on secondment to, and being paid by other organisations, or on career breaks. Since September 2013, all strength figures have been calculated on the basis of actual numbers serving, excluding those members on secondment or career breaks.
|
Date |
31 December 2012 |
31 December 2013 |
31 December 2014 |
|
Strength |
9,359 |
9,236 |
9,280 |
The Government is committed to maintaining the stabilised strength of the Permanent Defence Force at or close to 9,500 personnel.
Targeted General Service recruitment will continue this year from the recruitment panels formed from the 2014 competition. It is planned that these panels will remain in place until they are exhausted in 2015.
With the support of the Chief of Staff and within the resources available, I intend to retain the capacity of the Defence Forces to operate effectively across all roles and to undertake the tasks assigned by Government both at home and overseas.
513. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Defence the number of promotional positions, waiting to be filled throughout the Defence Forces; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22393/15]
Amharc ar fhreagraI am advised by the Military Authorities that the strength of the Permanent Defence Force, at 31 May 2015, the latest date for which figures are available was 9,294, comprising 7,442 Army, 766 Air Corps and 1,086 Naval Service personnel.
The following table outlines the establishment, strength and vacancies of the Permanent Defence Force, by Army, Air Corps and Naval Service as at 31 May 2015, based on the agreed stabilised strength for the Permanent Defence Force of 9,500.
Promotions are ongoing within the Officer and Non-Commissioned ranks in order to fill rank vacancies. New NCO promotion competitions to fill vacancies to the ranks of Sergeants and above were held in late 2014 and promotions are currently underway.
In addition, targeted recruitment will continue in 2015 so as to maintain the level of 9,500 personnel. It is my intention that promotions, along with targeted recruitment, will continue to be carried out within the resource envelope allocated to Defence.
PDF Strength by Rank as at 31 May 2015 versus PDF Rank Establishment of 9,500
|
Lt Gen |
Maj Gen |
Brig Gen |
Col |
Lt Col |
Cmdt |
Capt |
Lt |
SM |
BQMS |
CS |
CQMS |
Sgt |
Cpl |
Pte/Cadet |
|
|
Army Rank Establishment |
1 |
2* |
6 |
37 |
110 |
255 |
306 |
167 |
29 |
33 |
114 |
170 |
973 |
1,437 |
3,880 |
|
Army Strength |
1 |
2 |
7 |
33 |
103 |
251 |
272 |
229 |
29 |
33 |
113 |
170 |
913 |
1,379 |
3,907** |
|
Vacancies by Rank |
0 |
0 |
-1 |
4 |
7 |
4 |
34 |
-62 |
0 |
0 |
1 |
0 |
60 |
58 |
-27 |
|
Air Corp Rank Establishment |
0 |
0 |
1 |
2 |
14 |
36 |
65 |
48 |
8 |
4 |
56 |
14 |
131 |
183 |
324 |
|
Air Corps Strength |
0 |
0 |
1 |
2 |
11 |
32 |
59 |
25 |
8 |
4 |
53 |
14 |
121 |
161 |
275** |
|
Vacancies by Rank |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
3 |
4 |
6 |
23 |
0 |
0 |
3 |
0 |
10 |
22 |
49 |
|
Naval Service Rank Establishment |
0 |
0 |
1 |
2 |
13 |
45 |
81 |
41 |
6 |
7 |
75 |
15 |
226 |
180 |
402 |
|
Naval Service Strength |
0 |
0 |
1 |
2 |
13 |
43 |
64 |
31 |
6 |
7 |
75 |
15 |
226 |
150 |
453** |
|
Vacancies by Rank |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
2 |
17 |
10 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
30 |
-51 |
|
Total Vacancies by Rank |
0 |
0* |
-1 |
4 |
10 |
10 |
57 |
-29 |
0 |
0 |
4 |
0 |
70 |
110 |
-29 |
* For administrative record purposes, the two Major General Appointments in the Permanent Defence Force are held against the establishment for the Army. One of these posts is currently filled by an Air Corps Officer and the other by a Naval Service Officer.
** Includes 26 Army Cadets, 18 Air Corps Cadets and 11 Naval Service Cadets. There are an additional 27 personnel on career breaks/secondment, who are not included in the strengths in the above table. Note: Equivalent Naval Service Ranks: Brigadier General/Commodore; Colonel/Captain; Lieutenant Colonel/Commander; Commandant/Lieutenant Commander; Captain/Lieutenant (NS); Lieutenant/Sub Lieutenant; Sergeant Maj or/Warrant Officer; Battalion Quartermaster Sergeant/Senior Chief Petty Officer; Company Quartermaster Sergeant/Senior Petty Officer; Company Sergeant/Chief Petty Officer; Sergeant/Petty Officer; Corporal/Leading Seaman; Private/Able Seaman.
514. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Defence the extent to which the number of women in the Defence Forces, at all ranks, has varied in the course of the past five years; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22394/15]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe table below sets out the number of females in the Defence Forces at all ranks over the past five years (i.e. on the 31st of December, 2010 to 2014 inclusive). I wish to advise the Deputy that the strength figures for 2010, 2011 and 2012 include personnel who were on secondment to, and being paid by other organisations, or on career breaks. Since September 2013, all strength figures have been calculated on the basis of actual numbers serving, excluding those members on secondment or career breaks.
|
Rank |
2010 |
2011 |
2012 |
2013 |
2014 |
|
Lieutenant General |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
Major General |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
Brigadier General |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
Colonel |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
Lieutenant Colonel |
1 |
2 |
2 |
2 |
3 |
|
Commandant |
20 |
22 |
32 |
33 |
31 |
|
Captain |
55 |
61 |
57 |
46 |
64 |
|
Lieutenant |
67 |
60 |
55 |
55 |
40 |
|
Sergeant Major |
0 |
0 |
1 |
1 |
1 |
|
Battalion Quarter Master Sergeant |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
Company Sergeant |
3 |
3 |
2 |
1 |
1 |
|
Company Quarter Master Sergeant |
1 |
1 |
0 |
1 |
1 |
|
Sergeant |
37 |
39 |
39 |
51 |
63 |
|
Corporal |
126 |
143 |
143 |
138 |
140 |
|
Privates |
346 |
229 |
245 |
214 |
210 |
|
Cadets |
13 |
5 |
6 |
4 |
9 |
|
Total |
569 |
565 |
582 |
546 |
563 |
The Government is committed to a policy of equal opportunity for men and women throughout the Defence Forces and to the full participation by women in all aspects of Defence Forces activities.
A number of specific initiatives have been implemented to increase female participation in the Defence Forces including:
- The introduction of best practices in recruitment, such as the adjustment of physical standards for female applicants;
- Special consideration is paid to women as a target group for recruitment;
- A balanced composition between men and women on recruitment and selection boards;
- All promotions and career courses are open to both sexes on merit and;
- A Gender Advisor has been appointed to promote gender equality policies and training within the Defence Forces.
I believe that a key issue in recruiting and retaining female personnel lies in societal perception and attitudes to female soldiers and officers. I am hopeful that through continued engagement and communication, this perception will change over time.
515. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Defence the total strength of the Defence Forces currently serving overseas, at all ranks; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22395/15]
Amharc ar fhreagraAs of 01 June 2015, Ireland is contributing approximately 497 Defence Forces personnel to 13 missions throughout the world. Full details of all personnel currently serving overseas including the lead organisation for each mission are listed in the tabular statement attached.
The most recent deployment overseas was the despatch of the Irish naval vessel, L.É. Eithne, to assist the Italian authorities in humanitarian search and rescue operations in the Mediterranean. A crew of sixty-seven (67) personnel of the Permanent Defence Force, augmented by two (2) medical officers of the Permanent Defence Force, are deployed to the Operation.
The current contribution of some 497 personnel to overseas missions reflects the Government’s continued commitment to our responsibilities in the area of international peace and security.
MEMBERS OF THE PERMANENT DEFENCE FORCE SERVING OVERSEAS AS OF 01 JUNE 2015
|
1. |
UN MISSIONS |
|
|
UNIFIL (United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon) HQ |
9 |
|
|
UNIFIL 49th Infantry Group |
184 |
|
|
UNIFIL Sector West HQ |
4 |
|
|
UNTSO (United Nations Truce Supervision Organisation) Israel and Syria |
13 |
|
|
MINURSO (United Nations Mission for the Referendum in Western Sahara) |
3 |
|
|
MONUSCO (United Nations Stabilisation Mission in the Democratic Republic of the Congo) |
4 |
|
|
UNOCI (United Nations Mission in Ivory Coast) |
2 |
|
|
UNDOF (United Nations Disengagement Observer Force) HQ, Golan Heights Syria |
8 |
|
|
UNDOF 48th Infantry Group |
130 |
|
|
TOTAL |
357 |
|
|
UN MANDATED MISSIONS |
||
|
EUFOR (EU led Operation in Bosnia and Herzegovina) |
7 |
|
|
EUTM Mali (EU led Training Mission) |
9 |
|
|
KFOR (International Security Presence in Kosovo) HQ |
12 |
|
|
RSM (Resolute Support Mission in Afghanistan) |
7 |
|
|
TOTAL NUMBER OF PERSONNEL SERVING WITH UN MISSIONS |
392 |
|
|
2. |
OTHER DEPLOYMENTS |
|
|
UK EBOLA TREATMENT CENTRE (Sierra Leone) |
4 |
|
|
Naval Service Humanitarian Mission in Mediterranean (L.E. Eithne) |
69 |
|
|
TOTAL NUMBERS OF PERSONNEL OTHER DEPLOYMENTS |
73 |
|
|
3. |
ORGANISATION FOR SECURITY AND COOPERATION IN EUROPE (OSCE) |
|
|
OSCE Mission to Bosnia & Herzegovina |
2 |
|
|
Staff Officer, High Level Planning Group Vienna |
1 |
|
|
TOTAL NUMBER OF PERSONNEL SERVING OSCE |
3 |
|
|
4. |
EU MILITARY STAFF |
|
|
Brussels |
5 |
|
|
5. |
NORDIC BATTLE GROUP 2015 |
|
|
FHQ Sweden |
14 |
|
|
6. |
MILITARY REPRESENTATIVES/ADVISERS/STAFF |
|
|
Military Adviser, Permanent Mission to UN, New York |
1 |
|
|
Military Adviser Irish delegation to OSCE, Vienna |
1 |
|
|
Military Representative to EU (Brussels) |
4 |
|
|
Liaison Office of Ireland, NATO/PfP (Brussels) |
2 |
|
|
EU OHQ Operation Althea, Mons, Belgium |
1 |
|
|
Irish Liaison Officer to SHAPE & Military Co-Op Division, Mons, Belgium |
1 |
|
|
TOTAL NUMBER OF DEFENCE FORCES PERSONNEL SERVING OVERSEAS |
497 |
The above figure represents 143 Officers, 178 Non Commissioned Officers and 176 Privates/Able Bodied Seamen.
516. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Defence the extent to which the Naval Service continues to successfully carry out its operations in the Mediterranean; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22397/15]
Amharc ar fhreagraAt a special meeting of the European Council on 23 April 2015, the Taoiseach announced that Ireland would deploy an Irish Naval Service vessel to assist in the humanitarian crisis in the Mediterranean. Following Government approval and agreement with the Italian authorities, L.É. Eithne arrived in the South Central Mediterranean on 23 May 2015, to assist the Italian authorities in humanitarian search and rescue operations in the Mediterranean.
The role of the Irish Naval vessel is to provide a search and rescue capability and to undertake humanitarian rescue operations at sea in the Mediterranean. Assistance to persons in distress at sea is being provided in accordance with the applicable provisions of international conventions governing search and rescue situations. Co-ordination of search and rescue efforts and the provision of humanitarian assistance is being achieved by close co-operation with the Italian authorities.
L.É. Eithne is deployed on the high seas in international waters between Sicily and Libya, which is where most migrant activity and search and rescue incidents have occurred. The Irish naval vessel is working in co-ordination with European navies, including British, Italian and German naval forces. To date, L.É. Eithne has been involved in a number of rescue operations resulting in the rescue of approximately 1,160 migrants.
The despatch of an Irish naval vessel the L.É. EITHNE to assist the Italian authorities in this humanitarian search and rescue operation highlights the Government's commitment to assist with efforts to prevent further tragedy and loss of life at sea.
517. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Defence the extent to which the services of the army, navy and air corps continue to be called on to assist on international peace-keeping and-or rescue missions; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22398/15]
Amharc ar fhreagraAs of 01 June 2015, Ireland is contributing approximately 497 Defence Forces personnel to 13 missions throughout the world. Full details of all personnel currently serving overseas including the lead organisation for each mission are listed in the tabular statement attached.
The most recent deployment overseas was the despatch of the Irish naval vessel, L.É. Eithne, to assist the Italian authorities in humanitarian search and rescue operations in the Mediterranean. A crew of sixty-seven (67) personnel of the Permanent Defence Force, augmented by two (2) medical officers of the Permanent Defence Force, are deployed to the Operation.
Requests received by Ireland from time to time in relation to participation in various missions are considered on a case-by-case basis. However, given Ireland's current level of commitment in overseas peacekeeping operations we are not in a position to make significant long-term commitments to other missions at this time.
The current contribution of some 497 personnel to overseas missions reflects the Government’s continued commitment to our responsibilities in the area of international peace and security.
MEMBERS OF THE PERMANENT DEFENCE FORCE SERVING OVERSEAS AS OF 01 JUNE 2015
|
1. |
UN MISSIONS |
|
|
UNIFIL (United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon) HQ |
9 |
|
|
UNIFIL 49th Infantry Group |
184 |
|
|
UNIFIL Sector West HQ |
4 |
|
|
UNTSO (United Nations Truce Supervision Organisation) Israel and Syria |
13 |
|
|
MINURSO (United Nations Mission for the Referendum in Western Sahara) |
3 |
|
|
MONUSCO (United Nations Stabilisation Mission in the Democratic Republic of the Congo) |
4 |
|
|
UNOCI (United Nations Mission in Ivory Coast) |
2 |
|
|
UNDOF (United Nations Disengagement Observer Force) HQ, Golan Heights Syria |
8 |
|
|
UNDOF 48th Infantry Group |
130 |
|
|
TOTAL |
357 |
|
|
UN MANDATED MISSIONS |
||
|
EUFOR (EU led Operation in Bosnia and Herzegovina) |
7 |
|
|
EUTM Mali (EU led Training Mission) |
9 |
|
|
KFOR (International Security Presence in Kosovo) HQ |
12 |
|
|
RSM (Resolute Support Mission in Afghanistan) |
7 |
|
|
TOTAL NUMBER OF PERSONNEL SERVING WITH UN MISSIONS |
392 |
|
|
2. |
OTHER DEPLOYMENTS |
|
|
UK EBOLA TREATMENT CENTRE (Sierra Leone) |
4 |
|
|
Naval Service Humanitarian Mission in Mediterranean (L.E. Eithne) |
69 |
|
|
TOTAL NUMBERS OF PERSONNEL OTHER DEPLOYMENTS |
73 |
|
|
3. |
ORGANISATION FOR SECURITY AND COOPERATION IN EUROPE (OSCE) |
|
|
OSCE Mission to Bosnia & Herzegovina |
2 |
|
|
Staff Officer, High Level Planning Group Vienna |
1 |
|
|
TOTAL NUMBER OF PERSONNEL SERVING OSCE |
3 |
|
|
4. |
EU MILITARY STAFF |
|
|
Brussels |
5 |
|
|
5. |
NORDIC BATTLE GROUP 2015 |
|
|
FHQ Sweden |
14 |
|
|
6. |
MILITARY REPRESENTATIVES/ADVISERS/STAFF |
|
|
Military Adviser, Permanent Mission to UN, New York |
1 |
|
|
Military Adviser Irish delegation to OSCE, Vienna |
1 |
|
|
Military Representative to EU (Brussels) |
4 |
|
|
Liaison Office of Ireland, NATO/PfP (Brussels) |
2 |
|
|
EU OHQ Operation Althea, Mons, Belgium |
1 |
|
|
Irish Liaison Officer to SHAPE & Military Co-Op Division, Mons, Belgium |
1 |
|
|
TOTAL NUMBER OF DEFENCE FORCES PERSONNEL SERVING OVERSEAS |
497 |
518. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Defence the extent to which he continues to influence Defence policy at European Level, with particular reference to the need to ensure that Defence Forces throughout Europe are sufficiently co-ordinated to ensure their capability in the event of a terrorist attack; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22399/15]
Amharc ar fhreagraI am regularly in touch with my EU colleagues both in the context of European Defence and Security and other matters. In addition to bilateral contacts two official meeting of EU Defence Ministers are held during each six month EU Presidency. The most recent meeting that I attended was the meeting of Foreign Affairs and Defence Ministers, which took place in Brussels on 18 May 2015. Discussions at the meeting covered a wide range of European Defence and Security issues and associated challenges.
I am also kept fully apprised of issues arising from meetings which officials from my Department attend in the area of European Defence and Security. As with the formulation of any policy, best practice and lessons learnt in other jurisdictions will always inform EU policy formulation to ensure that it is robust, coherent and meets the needs of member States.
As previously advised in response to the Deputy's Question No. 416 of 24 March 2015, the response to acts of terrorism within the borders of the EU falls outside the remit of the EU's Common Security and Defence Policy (CSDP). This is an issue for the national security authorities of each member State and the EU does not deploy military assets under CSDP within the borders of the EU.
519. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Defence the degree to which he remains satisfied regarding the ability of the Defence Forces to respond to any emergency that might arise; if the quality and extent of the military equipment available remains in line with best international standards; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22400/15]
Amharc ar fhreagraPrimary responsibility for the maintenance of law and order including the protection of the internal security of the State rests with An Garda Síochána. However, one of the roles assigned to the Defence Forces in the White Paper on Defence (2000) is to provide Aid to the Civil Power (ATCP) which, in practice means to assist An Garda Síochána when requested to do so.
A wide variety of military training activities are specifically designed to counter or respond to possible security emergencies and the Defence Forces hold regular coordination and liaison meetings with An Garda Síochána in relation to ATCP issues.
In relation to non-security related emergencies, whilst the Defence Forces are not a Principal Response Agency as defined in the Framework for Major Emergency Management, they provide the fullest possible assistance to the appropriate Lead Department in the event of a natural disaster or emergency situation in its Aid to the Civil Authority (ATCA) role.
At National level, representation on the Government Task Force on Emergency Planning, by both the Department of Defence and the Defence Forces, ensures the fullest coordination and cooperation in the event of an emergency. The Defence Forces are also represented on the eight Regional Working Groups that have been established under the Framework and, on an ongoing basis, designated members of the Defence Forces, based around the country, act as Liaison Officers to Local Authorities.
The full spectrum of Defence Forces personnel and equipment, commensurate with operational requirements, is available for deployments in response to emergencies and natural disasters. In this regard, the Defence Forces hold a wide range of engineering and transport plant and equipment for military purposes. All such plant and equipment suitable for use in emergency situations is made available as the need arises.
In relation to the Naval Service, all vessels in addition to their fishery protection role undertake general surveillance, security, pollution monitoring, and Search and Rescue in support to the Irish Coast Guard. These activities assist in detecting and preventing emergency situations throughout Ireland’s maritime jurisdiction.
The role of the Air Corps includes the provision of an emergency inter-hospital Air Ambulance Service in support of the HSE. It also supports the HSE in a pilot emergency aero medical support service operating primarily in the West of Ireland. The Air Corps also has a maritime surveillance function undertaken by its maritime patrol aircraft and both it and the Naval Service provide support to the Irish Coast Guard in maritime Search and Rescue operations.
I am satisfied that Defence Forces personnel have a modern and effective range of equipment, which is in line with best international standards, as required to fulfil all roles that are assigned to them by Government.
520. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Defence the extent to which payments from the United Nations in respect of overseas service by the Defence Forces remain up to date; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22401/15]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe UN reimburses some personnel and Contingent Owned Equipment costs in respect of contributions of personnel to UN led operations. Rates of reimbursement, fixed in accordance with UN categories of equipment and personnel, are agreed in a Memorandum of Understanding between Ireland and the UN for each mission. The missions for which Ireland is currently entitled to reimbursement of some troop and equipment costs are the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) and the United Nations Disengagement Observer Force (UNDOF) on the Golan Heights.
Since 1 January 2015, approximately €2m has been received from the United Nations in respect of reimbursement of troop and other costs associated with the participation of Defence Forces personnel in UNIFIL and UNDOF. The amount currently owing to the Department of Defence by the United Nations is approximately €8.2 million. This amount relates to the current UNIFIL (€1.5m) and UNDOF (€0.3m) missions. It also includes €6.4 million in respect of repatriation costs of equipment from the MINURCAT mission in Chad. The amount owing in relation to the MINURCAT mission is currently the subject of a review by the United Nations.
A Memorandum of Understanding between Ireland and the United Nations is also being finalised in respect of Defence Forces participation in the UNDOF mission. While troop costs for the UNDOF mission have been reimbursed by the United Nations, equipment costs will be reimbursed following signature of the Memorandum of Understanding.
Ireland is not entitled to any reimbursement in respect of Defence Forces participation in EU-led missions as all troop contributors to such missions are responsible for their own costs.
521. Deputy Niall Collins asked the Minister for Defence the number of Commissions of Investigation established under the aegis of his Department, in tabular form, since the Commissions of Investigation Act 2004 came into effect; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22751/15]
Amharc ar fhreagra522. Deputy Niall Collins asked the Minister for Defence the number of Commissions of Investigation under the aegis of his Department which have yet to complete and publish their reports; if he will provide a time frame for same; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22762/15]
Amharc ar fhreagra523. Deputy Niall Collins asked the Minister for Defence the number of Commissions of Investigation established under the aegis of his Department during the term of the current Dáil Éireann; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22773/15]
Amharc ar fhreagraI propose to take Questions Nos. 521 to 523, inclusive, together.
No Commissions of Investigation have been established by my Department since the Commissions of Investigation Act 2004 came into effect.
524. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the extent to which discussions continue to take place at European Union level, with a view to assuring a high degree of preparedness in the event of a terrorist attack; if the Defence Forces continue to be adequately briefed in this regard; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [22396/15]
Amharc ar fhreagraThere is considerable concern across Europe following terrorist events in Paris and Brussels earlier this year. The events show that all States must remain vigilant and attentive to the risks posed by international terrorism.
The issue is a matter of ongoing concern to me and my ministerial colleagues across the European Union and will be on the agenda for the upcoming Justice and Home Affairs Council on the 15th and 16th June next. Officials from my Department meet regularly with their European counterparts and An Garda Síochána maintains close links with their European and international colleagues in relation to the threat posed.
Ireland, like any other democratic country with similar values, is not immune to a threat from international terrorism. While an attack on Ireland is possible it is not assessed as likely and there is no specific information in relation to a threat to Ireland, there are a small number of people based here who support extremism. The activities of these people are closely monitored by An Garda Síochána. An Garda Síochána are also keeping the level of threat from international terrorism under continuous review in light of ongoing developments and continuing to take all appropriate measures to counteract this threat. In this they have the full support of the Government.
The Government is committed to ensuring that the necessary legislation is in place to address terrorist threats. The recently enacted Criminal Justice (Terrorist Offences) (Amendment) Act 2015 which came into force on the 8th June 2015, creates the three new offences of, public provocation to commit a terrorist offence, recruitment for terrorism and training for terrorism. These offences will carry sentences of up to 10 years imprisonment on conviction on indictment.
While primary responsibility for the maintenance of law and order, including the protection of the internal security of the State, rests with An Garda Síochána, one of the roles assigned to the Defence Forces is to provide Aid to the Civil Power (ATCP) which, in practice, means to assist An Garda Síochána when requested to do so. A wide variety of military training activities are specifically designed to respond to possible security emergencies and the Defence Forces hold regular coordination and liaison meetings with An Garda Síochána in relation to ATCP issues. In particular, the Defence Forces Intelligence Branch maintains a very close and effective working relationship with their counterparts in An Garda Síochána.
525. Deputy Clare Daly asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the reason the LÉ Eithne is depositing refugees that it finds in the Mediterranean, in Malta and in Italy; if it is the case, under the Refugee Convention of 1951, that once the refugees are on the LÉ Eithne, they are in effect on Irish sovereign territory, and should be granted refugee status. [21538/15]
Amharc ar fhreagraFollowing a Government decision, the LÉ Eithne was deployed to the Mediterranean on 16 May 2015 to engage in humanitarian search and rescue operations at sea as part of Ireland's overall contribution to the migrant crisis situation in the region.
It has been agreed with the Italian Government that the LÉ Eithne will conduct search and rescue operations in the Mediterranean in accordance with relevant international law on rescue at sea under which persons in distress at sea who are rescued shall be disembarked by the rescuing vessel at the nearest safe port in Italy. In accordance with relevant international and European Law any claims for international protection by persons who are rescued is the responsibility of the state of disembarkation.
The Deputy might wish to note that section 8 of the Refugee Act 1996 (as amended) provides that any person who arrives at the frontiers of the State or any person who at any time is in the State seeking the status of a refugee may apply to the Minister for Justice and Equality for a declaration of refugee status. There is therefore no legal basis for accepting extra-territorial applications.
With regard to the granting of refugee status, the Deputy might also note that the processing of asylum applications in Ireland takes place within a well defined national and international legal framework. All applications for refugee status are examined in accordance with the statutory requirements set out in the Refugee Act 1996 (as amended). Accordingly, where a person makes an application for refugee status in Ireland their application is examined at first instance by the Office of the Refugee Applications Commissioner (ORAC) and, on appeal by the Refugee Appeals Tribunal.
The Deputy will be aware that as a further part of its response to the crisis, the Government has agreed in principle to resettle an additional 300 vulnerable people as its contribution to helping alleviate the migration crisis in the Mediterranean. This brings our total commitment on resettlement to the end of 2016 to five hundred and twenty (520) people, or nearly twice the quota proposed by the Commission for Ireland.
