238 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Defence the extent to which heavy lifting gear and equipment is available to the Defence Forces and the civil authorities in the course of inclement weather conditions; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [46601/10]

The Defence Forces hold a wide range of engineering and transport plant and equipment for military purposes. All such plant and equipment suitable for use in emergency and severe weather situations is made available as the need arises. The type of plant and equipment suitable for use includes a 40 tonne crane, heavy duty fork-lift, tracked and wheeled excavators, bulldozers, articulated dump trucks, integrated tool/transport carriers, materials handlers, water purification plants, and a variety of smaller plant excavators, generators, lighting sets, pumping equipment, water trailers and other items.