Tony Gregory
Question:79 Mr. Gregory asked the Minister for Public Enterprise her views on concerns raised (details supplied) regarding the groundhandling directive; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [18418/99]
Written Answers. - EU Directives.
When airlines use sub contractors to provide groundhandling services, it is the airlines' responsibility in the first instance to satisfy themselves as to the adequacy of the standards, procedures, equipment and training of the service provider. In Ireland, the Irish Aviation Authority is the regulatory body responsible for the safety and technical aspects of civil aviation and it monitors the activities of airlines in this regard.
Where the provision of groundhandling services does not impinge on aircraft safety, such as catering supplies or aircraft cabin cleaning services, it is the responsibility of the existing agencies such as the regional health board's environmental health service for food safety, the Health and Safety Authority for safe work practices and the Environmental Protection Agency to enforce the legal standards in the same manner as for any other industrial activity or service in Ireland.
The general standards which airport authorities require groundhandling companies to meet will be in addition to the regulatory requirements set out above.