Joe Sherlock (Cork East, Labour)
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Question 25: To ask the Minister for Defence if his attention has been drawn to reported comments from the Chief of Staff of the Defence Forces (details supplied), that security measures to protect the State against international terror attacks must be kept at a high level here in the wake of the Madrid atrocity; his views on the Chief of Staff's belief that Ireland may be seen as a soft target for terrorists unless it tightens up security; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24182/04]

Willie O'Dea (Limerick East, Fianna Fail)
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I am aware of the comments of the Chief of Staff of the Defence Forces referred to by the Deputy. These comments were made in the context of the launch of the Defence Forces annual report for 2003 when the Chief of Staff explained the need for the Defence Forces to make contingency plans for a range of scenarios where the State may be at risk notwithstanding the fact that the risk may be seen as low. Having the appropriate security mechanisms in place will help ensure that Ireland is not seen as a soft target for international terrorists.

The most important defence against any terrorist attacks is detection and prevention by the security forces. While the Garda Síochána has the primary responsibility for law and order, one of the roles assigned to the Defence Forces is the provision of aid to the civil power, meaning in practice to assist, when requested, the Garda Síochána. The various components of the Defence Forces are active in this regard, providing such assistance as is appropriate in specific circumstances.

The level of any terrorist threat to Ireland is continually assessed. The advice available to me would suggest that while the terrorist threat to Europe is high, it is low in regard to Ireland. However, it is prudent that we take appropriate precautions and keep matters under continuous review notwithstanding the low level of the threat and this is being done.