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Defence Forces

Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 12 May 2021

Wednesday, 12 May 2021

Questions (147)

Holly Cairns

Question:

147. Deputy Holly Cairns asked the Minister for Defence his views on the Defence Forces proposal that the Air Corps takes over some maritime search-and-rescue operations; the implications for the current service provider; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25166/21]

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Written answers

There is currently a project ongoing under the remit of the Department of Transport, to consider, develop and bring to fruition a new Marine Search and Rescue aviation contract for future service provision.

The current contract for the SAR Helicopter service is between the Minister of Transport and a civil helicopter operator, CHC Ireland DAC. The contract commenced on 1st July 2012 for a period of 10 years, with an option to extend for a further 3 years. The existing contract has been extended for one year to 2023 to facilitate the lengthy procurement process and ensure compliance with the Public Spending Code.

A strategic assessment and preliminary appraisal document in line with the Public Service Code was brought by the Department of Transport to Government for information in July last year. The preliminary appraisal included an appraisal of various service delivery options, including where the state assumed full responsibility for the service, either through the Air Corps or a dedicated Irish Coast Guard Aviation Branch. Both were ruled out for a variety of reasons but notably the risks to the state and questions around potential affordability and deliverability. I agree with the strategic assessment and preliminary appraisal mentioned above and I do not see the Air Corps taking full responsibility for SAR services in Ireland’s search and rescue domain.

I have acknowledged previously that I would like to explore further the option of the Air Corps providing some element of the SAR aviation service, given their historical role in this area. In this context, late last year, I asked my officials to engage further with the Department of Transport to explore the option of the Air Corps providing some element of the next generation SAR aviation service while at the same time ensuring that the service meets domestic and international obligations for SAR and represents value for money for the State. This process is currently ongoing.

Ultimately, decisions on the scope, nature and procurement strategy for the next SAR marine aviation service will be a matter for Government once the detailed appraisal and business case has been finalised by the Department of Transport.

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