Written answers

Thursday, 6 February 2014

Department of Defence

Defence Forces Operations

Photo of Seán KyneSeán Kyne (Galway West, Fine Gael)
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32. To ask the Minister for Defence the qualifying criteria and the procedure for the Irish Defence Forces to be called upon to assist in circumstances necessitated by severe storms; if the financial cost of such assistance would be borne by local authorities or if it would be covered by the existing financial resources supplied to the Defence Forces; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5564/14]

Photo of Alan ShatterAlan Shatter (Dublin South, Fine Gael)
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The Framework for Major Emergency Management sets out the structure for enabling the Principal Response Agencies (An Garda Síochána, the Health Service Executive and Local Authorities) to provide a coordinated response to major emergencies including severe weather events. The involvement of the Defence Forces arises from requests for assistance from such Agencies in its Aid to the Civil Authority (ATCA) role under the muli-agency Framework.

At National level, representation on the Government Task Force on Emergency Planning, by both my Department and the Defence Forces ensures the fullest coordination and cooperation in the event of an emergency. The Defence Forces are also represented on the eight Regional Working Groups that have been established under the Framework and, on an ongoing basis, designated members of the Defence Forces, based around the country, act as Liaison Officers to Local Authorities. In addition, Memorandums of Understanding and Service Level Agreements are in place between my Department and other Government Departments to formalise the provision of such support.

The full spectrum of Defence Forces personnel and equipment, commensurate with operational requirements, is available for deployments in response to emergencies and crises. Costs are currently met by the Defence Vote for this type of support. Following the severe weather experienced last weekend, the Defence Forces were requested and provided support to Limerick City Council to assist with the delivery of supplies and the evacuation of civilians.

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