asked the Minister for Tourism and Transport if he has examined the role played by Ballygirreen international radio station. Newmarket-on-Fergus, County Clare; and whether he has considered an expansion of the service.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Clare Aeronautical Radio Station.
11.
As the Deputy is aware, the aeronautical radio station at Ballygirreen, which is part of the air navigation services office of my Department, is responsible, inter alia, for relaying air traffic control messages from the Prestwick Air Traffic Control Centre to aircraft flying between the US and Europe on the eastern half of the North Atlantic. The development of satellite communications could at some future date obviate the need for Ballygirreen station for this purpose. In view of the implications for the future of Ballygirreen, I have recently approved a proposal from my Department that consultants be engaged to conduct a special economic study in relation to the future role of the Ballygirreen station. Arrangements are at present being made to have this study carried out.
In view of the international renown of the station, can the Minister foresee this station providing a wider international service with the introduction of greater satellite service?
I am in agreement with the Deputy as to the desirability of the retention of Ballygireen for several reasons: because of its efficiency, because it provides employment for about 110 people and because of its dual role, including a meteorological role. All I can do is await the report of the consultancy firm. My thinking about it is along the lines I have just mentioned to the Deputy.
Does the Minister see a European role for this station and has he pursued anything in Europe in this regard?
As it controls the Eastern part of the Atlantic, it already has a European role. Another reason I would like to see its retention is that it is also a good money earner for the country.
Can the Minister advise the House if fees are collected from the various international military plans that fly over? Has much or any money been collected?
We are having an extension of the question.
It has been discovered that military aircraft were not being charged but I have made a decision that they will be charged.
Has any money been collected yet?
I have not heard any money rattling in the tills yet.
(Interruptions.)
In respect of military overflights is advance approval required from the Irish aviation administration?
There is a procedure which has to be followed.
Presumably we do not make a charge for over flights for British aircraft on rescue missions in our waters, for which they make a charge.
I know the Deputy has a hang up about this. We are very grateful——
I have a hang up about double standards and hypocrisy of the kind which brings the roof down if one of them flies over Hackballs Cross to rescue one of their own——
This sort of exchange is not in order during Question Time. Let us now come to deal with Question No. 14.
(Interruptions.)
We cannot pay for our own business.
I was brought up to pay 100p in the pound.
The Deputy's side would get someone else to pay it for them if they possibly could.
I did not see the Deputy rushing to pay it when he was in office.