Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 23 June 2020
11. Deputy Frankie Feighan asked the Taoiseach and Minister for Defence if funding will be made available for a north County Leitrim Civil Defence service (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [11963/20]
Amharc ar fhreagraCivil Defence (Cosaint Shibhialta) is a statutory volunteer-based organisation with a nationwide footprint, established in 1951. Civil Defence policy is set down by the Minister for Defence. My Department also provides up to 70% of the cost of funding Civil Defence in each Local Authority. In addition, my Department provides training for Volunteer Instructors and supplies vehicles, equipment, uniforms and personal protective equipment for Civil Defence volunteers.
Each Local Authority has overall responsibility for day to day Civil Defence operations within their respective Local Authority. In this particular case, Leitrim Local Authority is responsible for civil defence operations in Leitrim.
In 2020, my Department will provide a grant of up to €79,000 to Leitrim Civil Defence. In addition in light of the exceptional circumstances that have arisen as a result of COVID-19, my Department is providing some other smaller financial supports to each Local Authority in 2020.
