asked the Minister for Defence when the proposed helicopter service will come into operation.
90.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Helicopter Service.
89.
asked the Minister for Defence when his Department will have helicopters available for service in this country.
With your permission, a Cheann Comhairle, I propose to take Questions Nos. 89 and 90 together.
Because of the prospective time of delivery of suitable helicopters, it is not anticipated that the service will be in operation before next winter.
Would the Minister indicate what steps are being taken to secure helicopters?
The officers of the Air Corps have made all the necessary inquiries in regard to the most suitable types of helicopters available but I understand that the delivery time is likely to be at least nine months in all cases.
Do we take it that this service will be under the control of Defence instead of Transport and Power?
It will be operated by the Air Corps.