Ivan Yates
Ceist:26 Mr. Yates asked the Minister for Public Enterprise the proposals, if any, she has to review any aspect of aviation safety in Ireland in view of the number of aviation accidents and incidents in Ireland in 1996. [14899/97]
Written Answers. - Aviation Safety.
The Irish Aviation Authority is statutorily responsible for regulating aviation safety in Ireland. The principal statutory responsibilities of the company include ensuring that Irish airspace is used in a safe and efficient manner and regulating all safety aspects of Irish aircraft operations, the operation and maintenance of air navigation and aeronautical communications services and systems and regulating the operation and management of airports.
My Department has retained responsibility for the investigation of air accidents and incidents occurring in Irish airspace. Under ICAO (International Civil Aviation Organisation) and EU requirements such investigations must be independent of the regulatory authority.
A total of 15 accidents and 12 incidents occurred in Ireland in 1996. None of the accidents involved public transport passenger aircraft and only three of the incidents involved such aircraft. Indeed, there have been no aviation accidents involving public transport passenger aircraft in Ireland in almost 30 years. Given this situation, and taking account of the rapid growth of airline traffic into and out of Ireland in recent years, I am satisfied that high safety standards are being maintained throughout the industry in Ireland.