Alan Shatter (Dublin South, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

The Defence Forces currently operate an unmanned aerial vehicle system, commonly referred to as UAVs or drones. These UAVs, are, in effect, an information gathering asset which have no offensive capability. They do not carry weapons. We do not have any drones which carry weapons in the context of the Defence Forces.

Following a tender competition, an order for two man portable mini unmanned aerial vehicle systems and associated spare parts and training was originally placed with Aeronautics Defence Systems Limited from Israel, in May 2007. The UAV systems were acquired to enhance the capability of the Defence Forces to carry out surveillance and target acquisition for peace support operations and provide low cost, low risk means to increase capabilities and enhance force protection by performing missions which do not demand the use of manned aircraft. The acquired UAVs are at the very low end of the UAV spectrum and there are no weapon issues associated with them. In 2009, a further order for an additional two systems and spare parts and training was placed. The total cost on the UAV project since inception is approximately €3.35 million. The main feature in the additional acquisitions was increased flight endurance and the ability to carry better quality communications equipment.

The UAVs were deployed as part of the EU-led mission to Chad and the Central African Republic in 2008. The UAVs have not been used in overseas missions since April 2010. No further UAV is missing. The UAVs are for the sole use of the Defence Forces and have not been made available to any other agency in the State, including An Garda Síochána. The use of UAVs within the State is governed by the Irish Aviation Authority.

See this speech in context