Written answers

Tuesday, 9 May 2006

Department of Defence

National Emergency Plan

9:00 pm

Photo of Bernard DurkanBernard Durkan (Kildare North, Fine Gael)
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Question 134: To ask the Minister for Defence if he has satisfied himself regarding the degree to which the Defence Forces are prepared and equipped in the event of a terrorist attack; if an adequate and reliable early warning system is in place; the extent to which it is possible to contain or isolate such an incident; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [17016/06]

Photo of Willie O'DeaWillie O'Dea (Limerick East, Fianna Fail)
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The most important defence against any terrorist attack is detection and prevention by the security forces. While An Garda Síochána have 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, an 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 parts of Europe is currently high, in relation to Ireland, it is low. However it is prudent that we take precautions and keep matters under continuous review.

The Defence Forces make contingency plans for a range of scenarios where the State may be at risk. An urgent and detailed review to deal with a range of emergency situations was undertaken by the military authorities following the events of September 11. It included, inter alia, an up-date of the threat assessment: intensive contacts with other State Agencies, a reassessment of Operations Orders relating to vital installations, alert systems, the Army Ranger Wing, Ordnance and Engineer aspects in terms of Explosive Ordnance Disposal and Specialist Search and a review of equipment including the need for air defence. All matters arising were addressed and all procedures updated as required. However as the Deputy will appreciate it is not possible to expand on the operational details of such plans.

The capacity of the Defence Forces to deal with major emergencies is kept under constant review. Plans and procedures are updated as necessary and such additional equipment as is required to address any perceived deficiencies is acquired on the basis of identified priorities. Training and preparation for such events is also provided for in the Defence Forces Annual Training Plan.

The most important defence against any attack is of course external vigilance, detection and prevention by the security forces. All the necessary resources of the Garda Síochána and the Defence Forces are deployed to this end.

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