Michael Moynihan
Ceist:39 Mr. Moynihan asked the Minister for Defence if he is satisfied with the level of refuelling facilities for Air Corps helicopters in the south-west of Ireland; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Ceisteanna — Questions. Oral Answers. - Refuelling Facilities for Air Corps Helicopters.
I am satisfied with the number and distribution of refuelling facilities for Air Corps helicopters in the south west of Ireland. I am also pleased with the improvements being put into effect by the Commissioners of Irish Lights at their refuelling location at Castletownbere which will enhance this facility from a search and rescue operational point of view.
I thank the Minister for the information. I would point out that it is alleged that on the occasion of a boating accident off the Kerry coast in January 1989 the refuelling facilities then available at Cahirciveen were inadequate and the helicopter required for the rescue work had to proceed to Castletownbere. We feel it is important in that area to have full refuelling facilities for helicopters so that they are always ready to carry out rescue operations.
I had Cahirciveen investigated in that respect. The Castletownbere improvement, however, should help in that general area in the meantime.
I want to point out that on the occasion of the accident the journey to Castletownbere would not have resulted in any saving of lives but would have resulted in an earlier recovery of bodies.