HC Deb 02 April 1987 vol 113 c613W
Mr. Hume

asked the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland what is the current scheduled date of commencement for the contruction of the proposed three emergency bunkers in Northern Ireland; on which bunker work is to commence first; and what is the up-to-date estimate of the costs of the proposed bunkers.

Mr. Scott

It is proposed that the three Northern Ireland emergency centres will be provided through a phased building programme over the next six years at an estimated cost of £7.8 million. Work on the first of these sites, at Ballymena, is due to start by June 1987. No date has yet been scheduled for work to commence on either of the other sites.

Mr. Hume

asked the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland when the prepared lists of those who are to go into each of the three proposed bunkers in the event of nuclear attack were last reviewed; and whether those on such lists have been involved in any training or planning meetings.

Mr. Scott

The lists are currently being reviewed. There is a continuing training programme.

Mr. Hume

asked the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland what work it is currently envisaged would be carried out in the three proposed emergency bunkers in the event of nuclear attack; and by whom.

Mr. Scott

It is intended that all essential services to the community will be co-ordinated from the three proposed emergency centres should normal peacetime arrangements for these services be threatened or damaged during a war emergency. Personnel who have the necessary expertise for this task will be drawn from all the essential services, from the Northern Ireland Office, the Northern Ireland Departments and from industry.