Jim O'Keeffe (Cork South West, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Question 159: To ask the Minister for Defence the procedure for calling out and using the members of the Reserve Defence Force to assist in emergencies; the extent to which use was made of them during the recent flooding difficulties; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [46539/09]

Willie O'Dea (Limerick East, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context

In accordance with Defence Forces Regulations members of the Reserve Defence Forces (RDF) may, with their own consent, be employed in Aid to the Civil Authority, with the approval of the General Officer Commanding a Brigade or the Flag Officer Commanding the Naval Service, at such times and at such places as the Officer Commanding the Brigade RDF or Officer Commanding Shore Operations Naval Service may determine.

In respect of the recent floods, the Defence Forces have met all requests for assistance, received from the civil authorities, from within the existing capacity and resources of the Permanent Defence Forces without the need to call on the Reserve.