Written answers

Wednesday, 7 November 2012

Department of Defence

Defence Forces Strength

Photo of Bernard DurkanBernard Durkan (Kildare North, Fine Gael)
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To ask the Minister for Defence if he continues to be satisfied regarding the adequacy in terms of equipment, personnel and training of the Defence Forces to adequately respond to any emergency or security issues that might arise in the future including natural disasters; if the capabilities of the Defences Forces are regularly or intermittently assessed regarding their ability to meet such requirements; if the chain of command in respect of either type of emergency is adequately structured to provide a rapid response; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [48505/12]

Photo of Alan ShatterAlan Shatter (Dublin South, Fine Gael)
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The involvement of the Defence Forces in responding to emergencies or security issues arises from requests for assistance from An Garda Síochána (as aid to the civil power) or from other agencies of the State (as aid to civil authority). In relation to security, primary responsibility for the maintenance of law and order rests with An Garda Síochána. However, one of the roles assigned to the Defence Forces in the White Paper on Defence (2000) is to provide Aid to the Civil Power (ATCP) which, in practice, means to assist An Garda Síochána when requested to do so. A wide variety of military training activities are specifically designed to counter or respond to possible security emergencies and the Defence Forces hold regular coordination and liaison meetings with An Garda Síochána in relation to ATCP issues.

The full spectrum of Defence Forces personnel and equipment, commensurate with operational requirements, is available for deployments in response to emergencies and crises. The Defence Forces alert system is based on a graduated response, which ensures that the required level of readiness and commitment by the Defence Forces can be readily achieved. As a support agency the Defence Forces deploy capabilities that are integral to their military and contingency roles and training is in relation to these capabilities rather than specific capabilities for natural disasters or possible terrorist attacks.

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