Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 4 November 2014
1132. Deputy Seán Kyne asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport the progress that has been made on establishing a new, single point of responsibility for the funding and oversight of the country's vital mountain rescue teams; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42098/14]
View answerAs the Deputy will be aware Minister Varadkar discussed the issue of a single point of responsibility for funding and oversight of mountain rescue teams with my colleague Minister Fitzgerald, Minister for Justice and Equality. In this approach it was outlined that the primary role and responsibility of the Irish Coast Guard (IRCG) a division within my Department, is in response to maritime emergencies. It is recognised that the IRCG provide some operational assistance for mountain rescue, however primary responsibility for mountain rescue rests with An Garda Síochána (AGS).
Minister Fitzgerald in her response explained the operational nature of the relationship between AGS and mountain rescue teams, outlining that local mountain rescue teams are contacted via a pager system or nominated “Call Out Officer” following a 999/112 call. It remains the view of both the Department of Justice and Equality and AGS that the current arrangements represent the best use of available resources and expertise in the area of search and rescue.
