Brian Cowen (Laois-Offaly, Fianna Fail)

I propose to take Questions Nos. 1 to 3, inclusive, together.

My Department was represented on the national emergency response co-ordination committees, established each time on an ad hoc basis, with regard to the two severe weather situations of recent months. The committees were chaired by the Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government as the lead Department. The committee responding to the flooding crisis included a principal officer from my Department and members of the Government Information Service. The committee responding to the snow and sustained freezing conditions included these officers and an assistant secretary from my Department. I am satisfied with the role they played in both situations.

My Department is specifically nominated in the framework for major emergency response with regard to the co-ordination of information for communication to and through the media. This role was managed by the Government Information Service, which among other activities organised daily briefings for journalists with the relevant Ministers. I am glad to take this opportunity to express once again my and the Government's appreciation of the work of local authorities, the Garda Síochána, the Health Service Executive, the Defence Forces, Civil Defence and other statutory bodies, as well as Departments, in responding to the two severe weather events. I am also glad to recognise the very valuable contribution made by voluntary organisations and individuals in providing assistance to their fellow citizens during those events.

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