Mary Lou McDonald (Dublin Central, Sinn Fein)
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Question 50: To ask the Minister for Defence if he will report on the cost borne by him and by the Irish Defence Forces in preparations for the visit of Queen Elizabeth II; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12050/11]

Alan Shatter (Dublin South, Fine Gael)
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Based on the latest estimates available, the cost of the Defence Forces involvement in the visit of Queen Elizabeth II is likely to amount to approximately €1.1 million. I also indicated earlier the estimated cost incurred in regard to the visit by President Obama.

Jonathan O'Brien (Cork North Central, Sinn Fein)
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The Minister stated earlier that it is unlikely there will be a need for a Supplementary Estimate. If that is the case, from where in the Defence budget is it proposed to take the €1.1 million?

Alan Shatter (Dublin South, Fine Gael)
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There is always some element within the Defence budget to anticipate visits of foreign dignitaries. While I do not currently anticipate a need for a Supplementary Estimate in the context of Queen's visit, the matter has to be reviewed by my Department. In the context of my involvement in planning for the visit, it was understood, based on the estimate provided to the Department, that it was unlikely there would be a need for a Supplementary Estimate.

The Department of Defence operates with substantial financial efficiency and remains carefully within its Estimate. The Department continually reviews where it stands financially in terms of living within the financial envelope made available to it for 2011. I can say no more than that at this time I do not anticipate there will be a need for a Supplementary Estimate. I do not anticipate that the engagement of the Defence Forces and the cost of the visit will be in any way inimical to or prevent the Defence Forces from meeting of its objectives during the course of this year. Should there be a change, I will bring the matter to the attention of the House.