MORE THAN 500 members of the Defence Forces took part in a major exercise today on how to respond to a major terrorist attack.
It took place at a number of locations, including Dublin Port and Dublin Airport.
It centred on how the Defence Forces would respond to a possible request from An Garda Síochána following a ‘major on-island terrorist incident’.
The Defence Forces practiced various operational and tactical procedures while undertaking the exercise.
The operation involved members of the elite Army Ranger Wing, the Naval Service and the Air Corps, along with members of An Garda Síochána.
Chief of Staff Vice Admiral Mark Mellett described the exercise as a success:
The primary purpose of today was to exercise our plans and our ability to provide the military capability to support An Garda Síochána in the event of a major terrorist incident.
“The exercise was a success, we have identified lessons from it and we will continue to build on them in future exercises.”
The Defence Forces constantly prepare on an on-going basis to support the Civil Authorities in the event of a national security incident.
It says it will continue to enhance its response capability with more exercises in the future.
Minister with Responsibility for Defence Mr. Paul Kehoe said, “It is vital to ensure that the men and women of the Defence Forces are prepared to support An Garda Síochana in the event of a major terrorist incident.
“This exercise allows the Defence Forces to build on their capabilities and preparedness and develop their procedures with An Garda Síochána.”
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