asked the Minister for Justice if he will state by what authority, either statute or regulation, or both, members of the Garda Síochána maintain a twenty-four hour vigil in a private dwelling house when the occupant or occupants have not been charged with any offence or have not asked for police protection.

44.

asked the Minister for Justice the circumstances in which members of the Garda Síochána are posted in a farmhouse in County Roscommon; and if he will state the authority under which this action has been taken.

With the permission of the Ceann Comhairle, I propose to take Questions 43 and 44 together.

The members of the Force on this duty have been withdrawn since Monday last.

I regret that I cannot disclose any information as to the action taken by the police in this matter.