264. Deputy Roderic O'Gorman asked the Minister for Defence for an update on the review of Civil Defence Development Plans; if there are further plans for increasing investment and expanding civil defence organisations with a view to responding to future serious weather events like floods, wildfires, landslides, snowstorms and so on; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [62558/26]

The Civil Defence Act 2023 requires local authorities to submit civil defence plans at least every three years to ensure the most beneficial, effective and efficient use of resources in the implementation of the key objectives and strategies.

The plans contain local authority proposals for improvements to Civil Defence buildings as well as proposals for new equipment and training. My Department works with each local authority to maximise the use of resources and funding for each Civil Defence unit.

Given the role of Civil Defence in responding to extreme weather events, this is a high priority when considering equipment purchases and planned training. For example, we have already invested heavily in technical communications and drones, which were used extensively to assess damage and provide information during Storm Eowyn and during recent wildfires. In 2025, we commenced a programme to invest in flood pump equipment. This investment has continued through 2026 and we are now working with the Local Authorities and the Fire Service to agree the additional services that Civil Defence might provide during flooding. In 2026, Civil Defence also focussed on adverse weather driver training, evacuation and rest centres, purchasing key equipment and training greater numbers of Volunteers in the establishment and running of such centres.