Damien English (Meath West, Fine Gael)
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Question 15: To ask the Minister for Defence the role of his Department and the Defence Forces in relation to emergency planning; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38084/10]

Tony Killeen (Clare, Fianna Fail)
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My Department plays an important role in relation to emergency planning and response. The Office of Emergency Planning, which is a joint civil and military office within the Department, facilitates coordination of emergency planning across government departments and agencies. The Office supports the Government Task Force on Emergency Planning and the Interdepartmental Working Group on Emergency Planning. All government departments and those agencies with an emergency planning function are represented.

The Office supports me in my role as Chairman of the Government Task Force. It also assists in the preparation of my confidential Annual Report to Government on Emergency Planning. The Office also manages the National Emergency Coordination Centre, which was activated during last winter's severe weather events and during the volcanic ash emergency that occurred in April/May of this year.

As the Deputy will be aware, emergency planning in this country is developed on the 'lead department' principle. This means that each department is responsible for planning for those emergencies that fall within its remit. The Framework for Major Emergency Management sets out the structure enabling the Principle Response Agencies (An Garda Síochána, the Health Service Executive and Local Authorities) to prepare for, and make a coordinated response to, major emergencies and the Defence Forces respond within that Framework.

The Defence Forces' response arises from requests for assistance from An Garda Síochána (aid to the civil power) or from other agencies of the State (aid to the civil authority). While the provision of Defence Forces' support is dependent on operational commitments, every effort is made by the Department and the Defence Forces to respond to requests as swiftly and efficiently as prevailing circumstances permit. For example, during the flooding and severe weather events of 2009/2010 the Defence Forces provided support to An Garda Síochána, the Health Service Executive and Local Authorities using a wide range of resources.

The negotiation of prior response arrangements through Memorandums of Understanding and Service Level agreements between the Department of Defence, the Defence Forces and the relevant Government Departments continues to facilitate a planned response to emergency situations. These agreements have been completed with a number of Departments and Agencies. Departments/Agencies are also encouraged to engage in joint training exercises with the Defence Forces.