asked the Minister for Health if he has received a recommendation from Galway County Council that a helicopter be based at Galway, and, if so, whether he has made a decision on the matter, and if he will make a statement.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Galway-based Helicopter.
A recommendation from Galway County Council that a helicopter be based in Galway for the conveyance to the mainland of patients in islands off the west coast was received in my Department some months ago. The matter was considered at great length in the Department. It appeared, however, from the information available to me that the cost of providing a helicopter service would be extremely heavy at the present stage of development of these machines. I accordingly informed the local authority of the position and explained that while it was not possible for me in the existing circumstances to take any further action I would continue to keep the matter under review.
Would the Minister recommend to the Minister for Defence the great need for one of these as against jet planes?
The Deputy had his chance and he did not take it.
It is not a matter for the Minister.