asked the Minister for Transport and Power if, in view of the distress and grave concern caused to the relatives and people of the Island of Innishmaan, Aran due to the failure to deliver the remains of an islander by helicopter from Shannon to the Island, he has made any inquiries in the matter; and if he will make a full statement on the incident.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Helicopter Delivery of Aran Islander's Remains.
4.
I have had inquiries made into the occurrence but these are not yet completed. However, there is reason to believe that the load carrying equipment attached to the helicopter, although fully approved by the airworthiness authorities of the country of manufacture, requires modification to prevent accidental dropping of the load and this view has been conveyed to the country of manufacture. The equipment has been withdrawn from use in this country pending the completion of inquiries.
I would like to express my sympathy with the relatives of the deceased lady for the distress caused by this incident.
Does the Minister think this was a fit company to which to issue a licence in view of the two previous abortive attempts to transport the remains and that at the third attempt, this regrettable incident occurred?
The inquiry is still proceeding. The helicopter and all its equipment was licensed as airworthy by the Federal Aviation Agency in the US and in accordance with international law we accepted that certificate.
Will the Minister indicate when the inquiry will be completed?
I could not say but I think it will be shortly.
Will the Minister issue the findings?
I do not regard it as necessary to hold a public inquiry as the matter simply relates to the lifting mechanism.
Does the Minister not think that the people of the Aran Islands, apart from the relatives, are entitled to a full explanation?
If the Deputy asks a question later, I will give him the report of the inquiry into the matter.
I will not labour the matter.