Trevor Sargent (Dublin North, Green Party)
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Question 169: To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the cost of the Garda operation at Shannon Airport in 2006; and his views on whether there is merit in continuing with the operation in order to prevent security breaches by anti-war protesters. [9044/07]

Michael McDowell (Dublin South East, Progressive Democrats)
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I am informed by the Garda authorities that the cost, including normal salaries, of ongoing Garda policing arrangements at Shannon Airport in 2006 was approximately €3.85 million. In this regard, the Garda authorities allocate resources in accordance with, inter alia, assessed threat, so it is the latter which ultimately determines the associated costs.

It is the statutory function of the Garda Síochána to provide policing services for the State with the objective of, inter alia, preserving public order and protecting life and property. In this context, I am informed by the Garda authorities that local Garda management is satisfied that the continuance of the ongoing policing arrangements at Shannon Airport is essential for the integrity of the airport itself and of both its employees and clients.

Accordingly, I remain satisfied that Garda policing arrangements at Shannon Airport continue to be both necessary and appropriate.