Gerard Craughwell (Independent) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Minister of State for coming here this morning. It is not easy to come in and face somebody on questions in an area not designated as being within his area of responsibility. The concerns I have are not in any way alleviated by the document provided for the Minister of State by the Department. It is a matter that the defence committee will take up in the coming weeks. It is to be hoped we will get to where we should be.

The response from the Department clearly states that this happened in conjunction with the Defence Forces. The only member of the Defence Forces present at the signing of the memorandum of understanding was, I understand, a captain in civilian clothing. That does not give me great confidence. The statutory inclusion of the Defence Forces in all matters as we go forward is something we have to look at. Once again, I thank Minister of State for taking the time to come here today. It is important that somebody was here to answer the question.