Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 2 July 2024
94. Deputy Richard Bruton asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Defence to outline the training provided to members of the Defence Forces to respond to future environmental disasters such as flooding; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [28237/24]
Amharc ar fhreagraMy priority as Minister for Defence is to ensure that the operational capability of the Defence Forces is maintained to enable the Army, Air Corps and Naval Service to carry out their roles as assigned by Government. At national level, representation on the Government Task Force on Emergency Planning by both the Department of Defence and the Defence Forces, ensures the fullest coordination and cooperation in the event of an emergency.
In accordance with the Framework for Major Emergency Management, primary responsibility for responding to emergencies such as severe weather events rests with the three designated principal response agencies, namely, the relevant Local Authority, An Garda Síochána, and the Health Service Executive. The Defence Forces provides assistance within means to the appropriate Lead Department or Principal Response Agency in the event of a natural disaster or an emergency situation in its Aid to the Civil Authority (ATCA) and Aid to the Civil Power (ATCP) roles.
The primary function of training in the Defence Forces is to develop and maintain the capabilities necessary to enable them to fulfil the roles laid down by Government, including ATCA and ATCP. I am committed to ensuring that the personnel of the Defence Forces continue to be equipped and trained to best international standards. The Defence Forces seek to constantly benchmark training across all three arms of the organisation against best military and academic practice. The scheduling of training is underpinned by an analysis of training required to meet operational output and capability development requirements.
I can confirm that the Defence Forces keep their operational plans and response capabilities for dealing with a wide range of threats and emergencies under constant review.
