Alan Shatter (Dublin South, Fine Gael)

The approximate cost of the Defence Forces' involvement is currently estimated to be €1.1million for the visit of Queen Elizabeth and approximately €630,000 for the visit of President Obama. In the context of the Garda's involvement, we do not yet have a final figure. When it becomes known, it will be made publicly available.

In the context of the need for a Supplementary Estimate, decisions in those areas have not been made. In light of both visits, we were anxious to ensure that the capacity of the Garda to provide a full and proper policing service to the end of the year, to meet all of its obligations and to do what is essential to address the issues that fall within its remit would not be impaired. The Government will address that issue when the final bill comes in and the final amounts are known.

With regard to the Defence Forces budget, it is unlikely that there will be a need for any Supplementary Estimate, but we have only just got the final figures. Should an issue arise out of them, the House will certainly be informed but, at this stage, I do not anticipate the need for a Supplementary Estimate.

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