asked the Minister for Defence if he will give details of the numbers of helicopters at present available to the Air Corps; the number which is fully operational; the number of personnel qualified to fly these helicopters during daylight hours and at night-time; the number of qualified helicopter pilots who have left the service; the number of replacement pilots who have come into the service since 10 March 1987; if he will make a statement on the morale of the members of the Air Corps service; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Written Answers. - Air Corps Personnel and Equipment.
144.
Limerick West): The Air Corps has two Gazelle, eight Alouette III and five Dauphin helicopters in service. The number of helicopters available for operations at any particular time depends on serviceability.
There are 23 qualified helicopter pilots with both day and night ratings. Four of these are qualified for night operations on poor weather over land or sea.
Five helicopter pilots have left the Air Corps since 10 March 1987. Four newly-qualified helicopter pilots have entered service since that date.
I am satisfied with the level of morale in the Air Corps.