clare county council

The Garda Síochána, the Health Boards and the Local Authorities (including the Fire Service) are the three main emergency response agencies in the case of major emergencies and have comprehensive framework plans to deal with these.  The plans are based on an all hazards approach and set out the framework of the response to all sorts of emergencies that may arise.  The main emergency services can call on the support of the Army and voluntary organisations such as the Civil Defence, Red Cross etc., if necessary.

The Department of the Environment and Local Government chairs an Inter-Departmental Advisory Committee on Major Emergencies.  The Committee comprises representatives from the Departments of Environment and Local Government, Health and Children, Justice, Equality and Law Reform and Defence and provides advice and guidance on emergency management matters for the main emergency response agencies.  It is an advisory body only with no involvement in operational matters.