Clare Daly (Dublin North, United Left)
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255. To ask the Minister for Defence the reason the Defence Forces spent 8,000 dollars on a terrorism course with the US army in Germany for a member of the Defence Forces; if other similar courses have been funded by the taxpayer; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [44988/14]

Simon Coveney (Cork South Central, Fine Gael)
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The Defence Organisation provides for the military defence of the State, contributes to national and international peace and security and fulfils all other roles assigned by Government.In pursuit of this, the Defence Forces necessarily avails of a range of professional and academic training activities at institutions at home and abroad. This commitment also ensures that the Defence Forces continues to maintain essential capabilities and knowledge so as to contribute to operations at home and overseas.

The Defence Forces, as part of its role, is required to retain currency on international security issues which may impact the State, deployed Defence Forces personnel and other Irish citizens across a range of contexts. The Deputy will be aware that terrorism is a trans-national problem and it is important to keep up to date with best international standards in the areas of terrorism and security studies. Terrorism, asymmetric warfare and threats from non-State actors are also a feature and an issue of concern in many overseas missions where Defence Forces personnel are deployed on operations.

I am informed by the military authorities that one member of the Defence Forces attended the Programme on Terrorism and Security Studies at the George C. Marshall European Centre for Security Studies in Germany during 2014. This four-week programme addresses numerous aspects of the threats confronting nations around the world.

The total cost of attendance for one individual at this course in 2014 was €3,800. I am informed by the military authorities that Defence Forces personnel also attended this course in February 2012 and June 2013.

I am satisfied that attendance at this programme is appropriate having regard to the role of the Defence Forces and contributes to the maintenance and development of essential Defence Forces capabilities.