Defence Forces Expenditure

Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 9 November 2016

Wednesday, 9 November 2016

Ceisteanna (35)

Bríd Smith

Ceist:

35. Deputy Bríd Smith asked the Taoiseach and Minister for Defence the cost to the Army for guarding Shannon airport in 2015; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33823/16]

Freagraí scríofa

Minister of State at the Department of Defence (Deputy Paul Kehoe)

The Department of Justice and Equality and An Garda Síochána have primary responsibility for the internal security of the State. Among the roles assigned to the Defence Forces in the White Paper on Defence is the provision of Aid to the Civil Power (ATCP) which, in practice, means to assist An Garda Síochána when requested to do so.

The costs incurred in the provision of ATCP support by the Defence Forces to An Garda Síochána at Shannon airport in 2015 was €180,814.21. The costs comprise payment of Security Duty Allowance, provision of rations, and fuel.