Pilot Training Courses

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 10 July 2012

Tuesday, 10 July 2012

Ceisteanna (536)

Willie O'Dea

Ceist:

553 Deputy Willie O’Dea asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport if his attention has been drawn to the fact that up to 80 students from Ireland, some of whom are from Limerick, have potentially lost more than €80,000 in fees following the termination of a training contract involving a Florida based college and the Waterford based Pilot Training Centre of Ireland; if he will investigate the way this could happen; the way the students can be facilitated to continue their training; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33580/12]

Freagraí scríofa

Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport (Deputy Leo Varadkar)

The Pilot Training College Waterford (PTCW) is a privately owned and operated flight training college. The Irish Aviation Authority (IAA) has responsibility for approving and overseeing flight training organisations in Ireland so I have referred the question to them for direct reply. I would ask the Deputy to contact my office if a reply has not been received within ten days.

The Deputy can be assured that the matter will be investigated by the IAA and that the IAA is assisting pilot trainees to have their training to date recognised and to find new pilot training schools.

I will give consideration to a boarding/fee insurance system for the future, but none such is currently in place either in Ireland or the U.K.