Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 24 February 2004
206 Dr. Cowley asked the Minister for Defence if, in view of the privatisation of the north west search and rescue service, the same medical helicopter emergency transport service and mercy missions will be available to the Mayo and other off-shore islands by the new contractors as was provided previously; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5808/04]
View answerI understand from my colleague, the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources, Deputy Dermot Ahern, that CHCI provides a full SAR service to the standard required and demanded by the Irish Coast Guard. This service includes medical evacuation in the Ireland search and rescue region and island relief. As such, I can see no reason for coastal and island communities to be concerned about the standard of emergency service available from CHCI, when they replace the Air Corps in the north west.
In addition, one of the roles of the Defence Forces under the white paper on defence is the provision of services to civil authorities as and when required. The Defence Forces have never been found wanting in this regard, particularly in times of floods, forest fires, severe weather conditions or any other emergencies faced by the community, including those on the islands. In the event of an emergency request from the Coast Guard, or, from any other service, the Air Corps will obviously respond to any such request in it usual efficient and supportive manner and to the best of its capability.
