Séamus Pattison
Ceist:20 Mr. Pattison asked the Minister for Defence when the last medium-range helicopter was leased by the Air Corps; and the reason the lease was not renewed.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Air Corps Helicopter.
The lease of a Puma helicopter, which had been operated by the Air Corps from June 1981, was terminated on 28 February 1983. This aircraft was due a major inspection at the time, which would have rendered it unserviceable for a considerable period, and it was not considered that the expenditure involved in the continued lease of the aircraft would have been warranted.
At some stage a decision will have to be announced on this matter based on the commission's report. There is a clear and obvious need for a medium to long-range helicopter in permanent employ with the Naval Service. Could the Minister convey that view to whoever is ultimately to make the final decision in this matter?
I am certain that very matter is part of the commission's considerations and recommendations. I have not yet seen the document but I am certain that aspect will be touched upon. It is a very obvious problem in facing up to the storms which occur off our southwestern coast. The problem will have to be addressed in some organised way rather than in an ad hoc manner.
Due to the lack of a medium and long-range rescue service and our dependence on the RAF, will the Minister give a commitment that finance will be made available to purchase or lease a medium or long-range helicopter, especially when £1.93 million was made available to lease a Government jet? Given what is involved, it is vitally important that money be provided as a matter of urgency.
I appreciate the importance of the matter. I cannot pre-empt the ultimate decision but it is germane to the report which is with the Minister for the Marine and will be with the Government in the near future. We can have a full debate in the Dáil on this matter when the Government decision is reached. It will be a very important aspect of the recommendations.