asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the functions military attachés in foreign embassies in Ireland fulfil; and if he is satisfied that the activities of these attachés is consistent with Ireland's policy of neutrality.

As I have indicated in my written reply yesterday to the Deputy's Question No. 253, two foreign embassies in Dublin have resident military attachés on their staffs. The attachés represent their countries in accordance with normal diplomatic practice, particularly with regard to maintaining liaison with the Irish Defence Forces and attendance at military ceremonial occasions as these arise.

In answer to the second part of the Deputy's question, I am satisfied that the activities of these attachés are consistent with the purpose of their presence here.

As the two countries which have military attachés attached to diplomatic staffs are both members of the NATO alliance, could the Minister indicate what kind of liaison is involved between Great Britain and the United States with the Irish Defence Forces?

I reject any implication that there is any significance in the fact that these two attachés are from countries which are in NATO. I understand that attachés from these countries were present in this country long before NATO came into being. There are numerous small ways in which they can be of assistance in maintaining liaison. Traditionally, members of the Defence Forces have gone on courses of training in different countries, including the two countries which have attachés here and the presence of the attachés has helped to simplify the making of arrangements for our personnel going on these courses. There is nothing sinister or significant in their presence.