Damien English (Meath, Fine Gael)
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Question 156: To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if, in view of the fact that we live in peaceful times in the State, it is still necessary for gardaí to escort the transportation of commercial explosives; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [41840/06]

Michael McDowell (Dublin South East, Progressive Democrats)
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Any person wishing to move explosives within the State must, in accordance with Statutory Instrument 115 of 1995, obtain the prior approval of the Garda Síochána. When granting such approval, the Garda Síochána may impose conditions on the transportation of the explosives which they consider necessary in the interests of safety and security.

I have been informed by the Commissioner that Garda escorts are provided for explosives in transport to prevent theft by criminal and subversive elements and that the current security assessment indicates that some criminal and subversive elements still pose a threat. However, the policy of providing such escorts is kept under regular review with a view to reducing Garda commitments where feasible.