Dáil debates

Wednesday, 18 May 2011

3:00 pm

Photo of Alan ShatterAlan Shatter (Dublin South, Fine Gael)

The Garda Síochána, along with the Defence Forces, is responsible for the security of the visit of President Obama and I have the utmost confidence in the Garda Commissioner and his officers, who I know are totally committed to ensuring that these events pass off without incident. I am fully satisfied that the commissioner has available to him all the necessary and appropriate resources to ensure the safety and security of President Obama during his forthcoming visit to this jurisdiction and that the Defence Forces are providing all the appropriate support in aid of the civil power.

A whole range of security considerations must be taken into account and those considerations are based on an ongoing assessment of the risks involved. I am sure people generally will be understanding of the security arrangements which have to be made and will co-operate fully with them. Such arrangements are a necessary feature of visits of this kind to any country and I am sure they will not detract from the great welcome Irish people will give to President Obama.

Some people would seek to disrupt these visits. The right to protest is an important one and one that my Government will always uphold, but we will not tolerate those who seek to break the law.

Comments

No comments

Log in or join to post a public comment.