Vol. 474 No. 6
52 Mr. Deasy asked the Minister for the Marine if he will ensure that the proposed helicopter rescue service for the south east coast is based at Waterford Regional Airport where all the necessary facilities are available. [1964/97]
I recently announced that tenders are currently being sought by my Department for a new medium load carrying marine emergency helicopter service for the east coast. I expect that the service will be based at Casement Aerodrome, Baldonnel, County Dublin and will commence towards the end of this year or early in 1998.
I also announced that the existing air corps dauphin search and rescue service, currently operating from Baldonnel, is to be redeployed to a location in the south-south-east region. In determining the exact location, I will be guided by an expert assessment of a number of locations in the south-east and south which is currently being carried out under the aegis of the Irish marine emergency service. This assessment will have due regard to marine activity by area and to levels of coverage by other services. It is envisaged that deployment by the dauphin will occur at the time the east coast medium load carrying helicopter is put in place.
I have noted the Deputy's proposal which will be borne in mind when a decision on the matter is being taken.
