The five Dauphin helicopters held by the Air Corps were delivered in the period June to December 1986 and not seven years ago as stated in the Deputy's question. Introductory training was provided in France prior to delivery and operational training programmes commenced in January 1987. It should be recognised that in order to reach a satisfactory level of operational efficiency, the crews of Dauphin helicopters must undergo an extensive period of sophisticated training.
Since the Deuphins were acquired they have flown 247 search and rescue missions as a result of which 182 people were rescued. They have also carried out 94 air ambulance missions including 20 island relief missions.
The question of the adequacy of this country's helicopter resources for air-sea rescue purposes is likely to be considered by the Government in the near future in the light of the report of the committee on air/sea rescue services which was recently presented to the Minister for the Marine.