Paul Kehoe (Wexford, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

It is a matter for An Garda Síochána to request the assistance of the Defence Forces. Following the successful talks last week on the European stage and between the Government and its British counterpart, I do not foresee a need for members of the Defence Forces to be stationed once again along the Border. Nobody in this House wants to see that. If the support of the Defence Forces is required by An Garda Síochána, along the Border or anywhere else, it will be provided under the aid to the civil power function. The Garda Síochána and the Minister for Justice and Equality have responsibility for the security of the State. The Defence Forces work hand in hand with the Garda, whether in training exercises or otherwise, to assist in any eventuality that might arise. Everybody will be happy not to see the hard border that was being predicted prior to the successful negotiations last week.

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