Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 11 April 2019
46. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Taoiseach and Minister for Defence the extent to which the Naval Service and Air Corps are likely to have access to upgraded training facilities and equipment to undergo extra surveillance work likely in the aftermath of Brexit; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [17175/19]
Amharc ar fhreagraAmong the roles assigned to the Defence Forces in the White Paper on Defence is the provision of aid to the civil power and the civil authorities. The Defence Forces at all times keep operational plans under constant review and there will continue to be ongoing close liaison between An Garda Síochána and the Defence Forces regarding security matters, including through regular coordination and liaison meetings.
Defence Forces training is designed to enable Defence Forces personnel address all potential calls on them arising from changes in the security situation on island within the framework of any roles assigned to them by Government, including aid to the civil power and aid to the civil authorities. Prudent planning in relation to all security situations which may require a Defence Forces response is part and parcel of the day to day operations of the Defence Forces and, as such, is addressed within existing resources.
Should a situation arise beyond the contingent requirement for Defence Forces deployment already provided for in the Defence vote, this will be addressed in the normal course within the budgetary discussions on defence funding.
