Vol. 491 No. 3
168 Mr. Haughey asked the Minister for the Marine and Natural Resources the plans, if any, he has to re-establish the coastguard service; if recruitment is envisaged in this regard; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12267/98]
I recently announced my intention to develop and identify the Irish marine emergency service of my Department as a national coastguard service. This announcement has received broad support from within the marine sector.
I intend to bring forward specific proposals in this regard later this year. I believe that the establishment of an Irish coastguard service will give a major boost to the public recognition and esteem of all personnel involved in marine emergency response and will provide a firm foundation for the progressive development of the service into the future.
Recruitment requirements will be assessed in the context of the proposals mentioned above.
