Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 14 Oct 2003

Vol. 572 No. 3

Written Answers. - Aviation Safety.

Liam Twomey

Question:

80 Dr. Twomey asked the Minister for Transport his views on a report (details supplied) amending Council Regulation (EEC) No. 3922/91 on the harmonisation of technical requirements and administrative procedures in the field of civil aviation. [23080/03]

Jack Wall

Question:

165 Mr. Wall asked the Minister for Transport if his attention has been drawn to the serious concerns of the Irish Airline Pilots Association and the European Cockpit Association regarding some of the provisions of the European Parliament report (details supplied) amending Council Regulation No. 3922/91; his views on whether the cumulative effects of many of its provisions on working times has serious implications for pilot health and passenger safety; if he will convey these concerns to the EU Council of Transport Ministers at the earliest opportunity and take steps to ensure the necessary changes take place in order to guarantee public safety; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23110/03]

Minister of State at the Department of Transport (Dr. McDaid)

I propose to take Questions Nos. 80 and 165 together.

I am aware of the concerns of the Irish Airline Pilots Association and the European Cockpit Association following a meeting held with IALPA on 12 February 2003. As I have previously stated in replies on the same subject on 7, 8 and 9 October 2003, the day-to-day oversight of aviation safety falls within the responsibility of the Irish Aviation Authority. The IAA is examining the proposals and will give their view on the completion of their analysis. As I also stated in my previous replies referred to above, in so far as this proposal may lead to legislative changes, I can assure the Deputy that I always give the highest priority to safety matters.