Alan Shatter (Dublin South, Fine Gael)

The Defence Forces came in aid of the local authorities. It is a matter for them if they decide to charge the local authorities for the services provided. Much of the costings I gave earlier would derive from use of the helicopters. It is estimated by Coillte, that of the 9,000 properties owned by it in the State which range in size from one hectare to 200,000 hectares, an average of 200,000 hectares are lost to fire each year. In the context of climatic conditions and that these fires occurred during what had been an unusually dry season, I am not sure what steps, if any, can be taken to prevent outbreaks of fires. In so far as there is a possibility that anyone can be identified as having started these fires, that is a matter for An Garda Síochána. It is hoped such events will not be repeated. I am sure the Army and the Air Corps will learn lessons, if there are any, from these events. It is a matter for Coillte, which does not fall within my Departments' responsibility, to take what fire preventive steps it deems appropriate. It has, however, been discovered internationally that in certain climatic conditions, such fires occur.

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