Vol. 489 No. 6
220 Mr. O'Shea asked the Minister for Public Enterprise if she will have the tapes of the radio messages from the Aer Lingus Tuskar Rock accident, particularly at the time of the distress calls from the Aer Lingus aircraft, subjected to modern expert examination to ascertain the further findings that could emerge in view of the major advances in technology since the publication of the examiner's report; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [9351/98]
There was only one distress call from the Aer Lingus aircraft involved in the Tuskar Rock accident, which was heard and recorded by the London Air Traffic Control Centre. At the time of the accident, the aircraft was transmitting on the radio frequency of this centre.
The distress call, as reported in the report of the investigation into this accident, was very short, of approximately 2.5 seconds duration, and of poor quality. This recording was analysed at the time of the original investigation and was again re-examined in recent years. This recent examination failed to reveal any further useful information.
The Air Accident Investigation Unit of my Department is not aware of any new techniques that could glean further information from the recording. However, if anybody can suggest a methodology of testing that may detect further useful data from this short recording, the unit is fully prepared to have such tests conducted. Such tests would have to be conducted under the supervision of the Air Accident Investigation Unit. It would not be proper for the unit to surrender possession or control of the tape to another party. Under section 5.12 of Annex 13 to the Convention of International Civil Aviation, states are required to exercise control over the custody of such tape recordings.
221 Mr. O'Shea asked the Minister for Public Enterprise if she will consider setting up an independent expert group to make recommendations to her regarding the reopening of the accident investigation in view of recent revelations regarding the Aer Lingus Viscount accident and other events which could be relevant; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [9352/98]
I refer the Deputy to my replies to questions on this subject on 2 April 1998, in which I indicated that in the absence of significant new evidence I am not persuaded to re-open the investigation of this accident. I also indicated that should such new evidence become available. I would be more than willing to have such evidence examined.
