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Search and Rescue Service.

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 6 July 2004

Tuesday, 6 July 2004

Questions (282)

Dinny McGinley

Question:

315 Mr. McGinley asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources when it is expected that a Canadian company which is providing search and rescue services along the coast is due to take over full responsibility for such a service in the north west; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [20446/04]

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Written answers

The Irish Coast Guard of my Department has overall responsibility for the provision of search and rescue (SAR) services in this country, including the north-west service based at Sligo Airport which is operated on the ground by the Air Corps.

In December 2003, the Minister for Defence announced his decision to withdraw the Air Corps from the north-west SAR service. This decision was made following an assessment of the capacity of the Air Corps to retain and administer a full 24 hour service. Since the announcement of this decision the Air Corps has provided a reduced service in the north-west. The Irish Coast Guard has arranged for provision of helicopter coverage from the three other SAR helicopter bases at Dublin, Waterford and Shannon airports, to supplement this reduced service.

The Irish Coast Guard has also requested Canadian Helicopter Corporation (Ireland) Limited (CHCI) to provide costed proposals for a full marine emergency helicopter service to operate out of Sligo Airport. CHCI is already supplying SAR services under contract from the bases at Dublin, Waterford and Shannon airports. These proposals are at present being assessed in consultation with the Department of Finance.

It is not possible therefore, to say at present, when, or if, CHCI may take over full responsibility for the north-west operation. However, should it be decided to avail of the services of CHCI, then that company would be in a position to commence operations for a 12 hour service within four weeks of notification and full 24 hour service within three to four months.

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