Simon Coveney (Cork South Central, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

It is my understanding that the Defence Forces are there at the request of the Garda Síochána. When the Garda Síochána asks for support, backup and assistance on security matters, the Defence Forces takes it seriously and provides it. The cost is assumed by the Department of Defence. On the broader issue, being a neutral state allows us to make decisions for ourselves as a country. We have strong reassurances from the US on issues such as rendition and we have a relationship with the US that allows us to facilitate flights in and out of Shannon on the back of those assurances. Questions about decisions with regard to the Garda Síochána must be asked of the Minister for Justice and Equality.

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