Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 19 Nov 2002

Vol. 557 No. 4

Written Answers. - Irish Coast Guard Review.

Seán Ryan

Question:

86 Mr. S. Ryan asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the Government's view on the recent consultant's report on the Irish coast guard; if it is intended to implement the recommendations made in the report; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22355/02]

Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources (Mr. D. Ahern)

The review of the Irish coast guard recently completed by independent consultants is currently under examination within my Department. The review contains over 100 recommendations concerning coast guard functions, operations and corporate structure.

While no decisions have yet been taken on the recommendations at this time, I have asked the Department to bring forward proposals as quickly as possible on the matter.

While it is accepted that the Irish coast guard provides an excellent service in relation to its current core functions and services, the review involved a root and branch examination of the service to determine its future direction and oper ation. The consultants were asked to propose the most satisfactory, cost effective, coast guard model for Ireland having regard to international best practice, including making recommendations on resource needs and organisational and operational structures.