Brian O'Shea (Waterford, Labour)
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Question 271: To ask the Minister for Defence the number of the 108 call outs of the explosive ordnance disposal team up to 15 November 2009 that were to genuine devices; the number of hoax devices; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [44199/09]

Willie O'Dea (Limerick East, Fianna Fail)
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The Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) Team from the relevant Defence Forces Brigade respond to requests for assistance, made by an Garda Síochána, in dealing with suspect devices and the removal of old ordnance. The Defence Forces EOD Team is required to treat all devices as suspect until the EOD Officer confirms the nature of the device at the scene.

The total number of call outs responded to by the Defence Forces for the period 1 January 2009 to 15 November 2009 was 180. The number of devices that were, on inspection, deemed to be hoaxes was 78. The remaining 102 incidents included 33 call-outs involving Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs) and 14 incidents for the removal of old ordnance. The balance includes the disposal of Time Expired Pyrotechnics (flares), objects washed ashore and other miscellaneous items.