Dáil Éireann díospóireacht -
Tuesday, 10 Dec 1991

Vol. 414 No. 4

Written Answers. - Marine Rescue Co-ordination Centre.

Pat Rabbitte

Ceist:

18 Mr. Rabbitte asked the Minister for the Marine when the recommendation of the Marine Search and Rescue report, as to the establishment of Dublin as a centre for co-ordinating the service, will be implemented; the reason for the delay to date; the steps which are being taken to implement these recommendations; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

Minister for the Marine (Mr. Wilson)

Work is progressing well on the equipment, facilities and personnel aspects of establishing a marine rescue co-ordination centre in Dublin. This is a complex matter and I expect that, following refurbishment of accommodation to the required standard, the Dublin Centre at Department headquarters, Leeson Lane, will be operational next year. The precise timing will depend on (1) the equipment of the centre by the Office of Public Works; (2) the installation of the electronics equipment; and (3) the recruitment, transfer and training of appropriate personnel. To date, there has been significant progress on all these fronts.

My Department have asked the Office of Public Works to expedite work on the identified facilities in my Department's headquarters as a matter of priority.

The electronic equipment has been ordered and will be installed in the new year.

Training courses have commenced for staff from Malin, Shannon and Valentia.