Vol. 542 No. 4
33 Dr. Upton asked the Minister for Defence if the required fire safety equipment and facilities are now available at Finner Camp, County Donegal, to allow it to be used for helicopter cover on a 24 hour basis; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24499/01]
I have been advised by the military authorities that the necessary equipment and crash rescue vehicle will be delivered this week. The delay in delivery was due to difficulties at the manufacturers.
The Air Corps has been asked to establish a crash rescue service in Finner Camp and selection of and arrangements for personnel will be completed by the end of this week with training commencing on Monday next, 22 October 2001. They will thereafter be permanently located at Finner Camp with the new equipment and the new fire tender.
Pending the establishment of these facilities at Finner Camp, the Air Corps is currently providing a 24 hour search and rescue service, using a Dauphin helicopter from Sligo Airport. It is planned that when the fire and crash rescue service is in place on a 24 hour basis the Dauphin will return to Finner Camp. It is anticipated that the service will be operational from Finner Camp with effect from 3 December 2001.
