asked the Minister for Defence the number of military parties provided by the Army to escort cash since this practice was established, the average strength of such escorts and the approximate cost of such operations.

Pursuant to their role of rendering aid to the civil power, the Defence Forces give assistance to the Garda Síochána in movements of cash. However, it would be contrary to policy and not in the public interest to disclose details of such military security activities.

The Minister has not answered my question as to the cost of such operations.

It has been the norm to give the answer I have given and it is not my intention to change that procedure.

Is it in order for the State to provide a security service for the banks especially having regard to the huge profits made by these institutions? Is the bill for such services sent to the bank or is there any form of redress?

The bill is not forwarded to the banks but this whole matter is being discussed.

Would the Minister agree, as a number of people would agree, that the only reason for the Army providing this security service is that it is a cheap service?

We must move on to the next question. The question the Deputy is asking has been answered.

I have not had an answer to my question and that is why I am pursuing it. It is totally wrong that the Army are providing a service for the banks. The taxpayers must foot the bill for this service and in these circumstances the Minister should be in a position to give us some information in regard to cost and so on.

I am calling Question No. 38.

Is it intended to charge the banks a fee for this service and, if not, why not?

That is not a matter for my Department.

Is the Minister aware that the GAA, on days of big matches when they require additional gardai, have to pay the Department of Justice for those men?

That does not arise on the question.

The same applies in the case of the authorities in Dalymount or Lansdowne Road on the occasion of international events. Why then, are the banks not asked to pay?

I have called Question No. 38.

I want a reply to my question.

It is not a matter for my Department.

Will the Minister bring the matter to the attention of the appropriate Department? Why is he running away from embarrassing questions?

The Deputy can rest assured that I do not run away from anything.

The Chair has called the next question.