asked the Minister for Defence the number of Irish Army officers who have attended or are at present on courses in the USA; if any members of the Irish Army or staff of his Department have been involved, however informally in any discussions with USA Government counterparts as to actions in an emergency in Europe; and if he will make a statement on these matters.

There are 26 officers currently serving in the Defence Forces who have attended military courses in the USA.

The question of inter-State co-operation on international matters is one for the Government which has not authorised any discussions of the type mentioned by the Deputy.