HC Deb 27 May 2004 vol 421 cc1850-2W
Mr. McNamara

To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland whether it is his policy that public funds should bear the cost of financial liability for injuries sustained through use of water cannon loaned by the Police Service of Northern Ireland to the Irish authorities. [176328]

Mr. Pearson

The loan of the water cannon was agreed directly between PSNI and An Garda Siochana. I have been advised by PSNI that the service level agreement between PSNI and An Garda Siochana for the loan of the water cannon includes a specific provision indemnifying PSNI against all proceedings, costs, liabilities and expenses whatsoever in relation to damage, loss, injury or death arising out of the use of water cannons while in the Republic of Ireland.