John McGuinness (Carlow-Kilkenny, Fianna Fail)
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Question 488: To ask the Minister for Defence the person who has registered the copyright of the camouflage pattern used by the Defence Forces on their uniforms, backpacks and so on; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12827/05]

Willie O'Dea (Limerick East, Fianna Fail)
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The camouflage pattern on uniforms to which the Deputy refers is also known throughout the Defence Forces as DPM, disruptive pattern material. The disruptive pattern used in the uniforms and other Defence Forces items was designed by the Defence Forces in the late 1990s following trials carried out with various patterns that were already available. The selected pattern is unique to the Defence Forces. No outside agency was involved in the design of the disruptive pattern. I am advised that the copyright of the pattern was not registered. Suppliers who are awarded contracts for the supply of goods are given use of the pattern by the Defence Forces.

John McGuinness (Carlow-Kilkenny, Fianna Fail)
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Question 489: To ask the Minister for Defence if all uniforms and like items are sourced here; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12828/05]

Willie O'Dea (Limerick East, Fianna Fail)
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Military uniforms and like items are not sourced directly in Ireland. Procurement by my Department, including the Defence Forces, must be carried out in accordance with Government contracts procedures and the European Union directives, under which the award of contracts is primarily based on the quality of the product and cost. The Government Supplies Agency plays an integral role in tender competitions for the supply of uniforms and like items to the Defence Forces. Irish made products would be considered in the normal way if tendered in a procurement competition.