Seamus Brennan
Question:45 Mr. S. Brennan asked the Minister for Transport, Energy and Communications the future plans, if any, he has for the Irish Aviation Authority. [3803/95]
Written Answers - Irish Aviation Authority.
In accordance with the Irish Aviation Authority Act, 1993, the Authority is responsible for the provision of safe, efficient and cost effective air traffic services to aircraft operating in Irish controlled airspace and for the safety regulation of Irish civil aviation.
My Department's overall policy in regard to air navigation matters is designed to ensure that the Authority takes all necessary measures in order that Irish controlled airspace continues to be operated safely, with maximum efficiency and effectiveness and that the regulatory safety standards applied by the Authority are maintained and enhanced in accordance with the highest international standards.
The Authority's air traffic management systems are among the most modern in Europe and are fully geared to meeting the requirements of the European air traffic control harmonisation and integration programme. This programme — EATCHIP as it is known, is currently being developed and is designed to increase air traffic control capacity in Europe and to relieve air traffic congestion. The Authority should continue to play a significant role in the harmonised and integrated structures which are being developed in Europe.
In addition to its core role, the Authority also has a strong commercial focus and hopes to exploit profitable opportunities in the field of aviation training and consultancy services. The Authority has a modern technical infrastructure consistent with world standards, supporting its commercial operations, and it is the intention that the Authority will attract and secure profitable business in the consultancy field in the coming years.
As well as opportunities, the company also faces challenges to its environment, most particularly that of satellite technology. It is a widely held view that satellite-based navigation will eventually dominate air traffic control. While this is still a number of years down the road, my Department is in close liaison with the IAA on all issues of this nature.
Finally, as the Deputy is aware, the Authority has only just completed its first year of operation. My Department is currently in discussion with the Authority on the finalisation of its corporate plan. This plan will address the objectives of the company over the next five years including the challenges and opportunities facing the Authority. I will be examining this plan in detail, with my officials, and I will be ensuring that the Authority, whose first priority must always be safety, is fully responsive to the needs of the market.