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

I am sorry, but the people on the street should be reassured that we have An Garda Síochána, which is the primary response body in emergencies. Its emergency response units have been highly trained at home and abroad and have significant capacity. They are supported by Defence Forces personnel when called upon to do so. Speaking as the Minister with responsibility for the Defence Forces, we are ready to provide that capacity. We do it regularly in respect of ordnance.

The Army Ranger wing is one of the best in the world at what it does in terms of its capacity, training, etc. There are ongoing conversations between the Defence Forces and the Garda to ensure that we constantly review, upgrade and assess the response capacity in order to respond to whatever threat may arise.

It is important that I reinforce the message for those who may be listening. The threat levels in Ireland have not changed. The threat of an attack in Ireland is possible, but not likely. We all have a responsibility to reassure people in that regard.

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