asked the Minister for Defence if he will disclose the full details of the recently announced plans for the Air Corps to train pilots for Aer Lingus; the finance to be paid to his Department in these circumstances; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Training of Pilots.
6.
(Limerick West): My Department have made no such announcement. A group has, however, approached my Department seeking facilities to enable them to set up a flying training establishment. The matter is under consideration.
Has the Minister in mind the Air Corps training personnel for the national airline?
(Limerick West): As I have said in the course of my reply, a group did approach my Department seeking the facilities available to the Air Corps to set up a flying training establishment. The matter is at present under consideration. I made no such announcement at all. The matter is ongoing but as of now no final decision has been taken one way or the other.
Will the Minister be making an announcement with regard to that matter in the near future?
(Limerick West): If the discussions are conclusive then certainly a statement will be made. However, these discussions are at a very early stage. The position is at present being assessed by the Air Corps. There will be no final decision taken for some time.