Denis Naughten (Roscommon-South Leitrim, Independent)
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252. To ask the Minister for Defence when the last intake of personnel to the bomb disposal unit commenced their training; the numbers involved; when they became fully operational; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [48922/14]

Denis Naughten (Roscommon-South Leitrim, Independent)
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253. To ask the Minister for Defence the current number of vacancies within each of the bomb disposal units; when it is planned to commence further training for such positions; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [48923/14]

Denis Naughten (Roscommon-South Leitrim, Independent)
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254. To ask the Minister for Defence the retirement numbers from the bomb disposal unit in each of the past five years and to date in 2014; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [48924/14]

Denis Naughten (Roscommon-South Leitrim, Independent)
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255. To ask the Minister for Defence the number of personnel from the bomb disposal unit that are currently on overseas duty; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [48925/14]

Simon Coveney (Cork South Central, Fine Gael)
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I propose to take Questions Nos. 252 to 255, inclusive, together.

Explosive Ordnance Disposal is the military term used to refer to what is commonly called ‘bomb disposal’. Explosive Ordnance Disposal is a task assigned to the Defence Forces by Government and is provided in Aid to the Civil Power. Within the Defence Forces the Explosive Ordnance Disposal function is assigned to the Ordnance Corps. I am informed by the military authorities that there are a limited number of vacancies within the Ordnance Corps at present due to the retirement of personnel. The Defence Forces does not disclose the number of vacancies as this information is operationally sensitive.

I am further informed by the military authorities that the Defence Forces currently have a number of personnel deployed overseas in the Explosive Ordnance Disposal role. The Defence Forces do not disclose the number of personnel deployed in specific roles, as this information is also operationally sensitive.

I am informed by the military authorities that it takes up to two years to train an Explosive Ordnance Disposal Officer.