Bernard Durkan (Kildare North, Fine Gael)

I thank the Minister for his comprehensive reply. In light of the pivotal role the Defence Forces play in dealing with emergencies caused by flooding, fires and inclement weather conditions by assisting with evacuations, etc., will the Minister provide an assurance that the degree to which the Defence Forces are likely to be able to respond to such emergencies in the future will not - even in the context of the current and difficult economic circumstances - in any way be affected or impeded by any review that will take place? I also refer in this regard to the search and rescue services and other emergency services provided by the Defence Forces both on shore and off.

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