Confusion at official level about how we would cope with a biological or nuclear attack, who would take charge and how people would be protected is scary. Less important in that context - but worrying nonetheless - was the confusion apparent at official level about what to do, and who would do it, when Irish airlines were threatened with imminent grounding after insurers cut war-risk cover following the terrorist attacks in the US.

With just hours to go before the planes were to be grounded, reporters were being referred "from Billy to Jack" for information. The Department of Public Enterprise suggested the Departments of the Taoiseach, Finance and even the Attorney General's office.

The Department of Finance said responsibility lay with the Department of Public Enterprise - maybe because Aer Lingus was involved, even though five other airlines were also affected. The Taoiseach's Department said the issue was still being discussed, while all departments suggested the issue had to be decided at European level.

Meanwhile, British and German governments put indemnities in place quickly for their national carriers.