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7.
The following fucces will be available for operations in Ireland: -
8.
53rd Division (now in Northern Ireland) 6ist Division (less R.A., R.E., etc.). (now
in Northern Irleand).
Coast, A.A., Home Defence and Training
Units (now in Northern Ireland). Royal Marine Brigade (Milfordhaven). 1 Division (now in the United Kingdom).
The air forces in Ireland will consist of
the following:-
2 Medium Bomber Squadrons (32 aircraft 1 Army Co-operation Flight (6 aircraft)
1 mplete Fighter Squadron) An emergency force
(12 aircraft).
2 Modum Bomber Squadrons
(20 aircraft).
1 Reconnaissance Squadron
(9 aircraft),
found from R A.F.
and Fleet Air Arm )emation?
Training Units in Northern Ireland.
In addition there is a general reconnaissance land-plane squadron of Coastal Command operating from Aldegrove which will not be available for operations within Ireland.
9,
An Air Officer Commanding in Ireland is being appointed by the Air Ministry with a small operational staff. He will exercise operational control of the air forces located in Ireland as well as of any air forces that may be made available to operate over Ireland from bases in the United Kingdom. headquarters will be established in immediate proximity to yours, and he will be instructed to work in close and continuous co-operation with you.
10.
His
Preliminary talks have already been held between the General Officer Commanding, Northern Ireland District and the Hire Authorities, and plans have been made for the re-inforcement of Bire from the troops in Northern Ireland.
11.
If a landing is necessary any locality not already secured by our own tops, the role of the Royal Marine Brigade will be to form the spearhead of the force to be landed. Shipping is now being made available at Milfordhaven and ships will be loaded with stores, etc.,
in order at once, that the force can embark with the minimum delay when required.
12.
One Division is being released from all duties in connection with Home Defence and should be prepared at once for operations in Ireland.
13.
The Royal Marine Brigade and the Division in Great Britain will come unde. your command at once. General Bourne will continue to give technical advice on the training of the Royal Marine Brigade in close consultation with you.
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