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Coast Guard Station Closures

Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 16 January 2013

Wednesday, 16 January 2013

Ceisteanna (1127)

Catherine Murphy

Ceist:

1127. Deputy Catherine Murphy asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport the reason he reversed the recommendation to close the Coast Guard Stations at Malin Head and Valentia Island. [58200/12]

Amharc ar fhreagra

Freagraí scríofa

Value for Money reviews into the Coast Guard and Marine Surveying functions of my Department by Fishers Associates identified a number of issues which need to be addressed in Ireland's maritime transport safety and marine emergency response regimes. One of the consultants' recommendations was that the option of a 2 centre model for rescue coordination centres should be pursued.  However, when I published the reviews last July I made it clear that I wouldn't accept or reject any of the recommendations until a full assessment of the proposals had been undertaken and actions prioritised to address the issues identified as requiring attention.

My Department has examined the consultants' recommendation regarding the operation of the 3 coordination centres, including engaging in further discussions with Fisher Associates, to determine how greater efficiencies can be delivered in light of the resource constraints under which we must operate.  After careful consideration of the various options available, it was concluded that the three centres should remain but that changes to the operation arrangements within and between the centres would be required to achieve the necessary operating efficiencies and savings.

In particular, through the utilisation of the most modern communications and IT infrastructure across a single national Coast Guard network the 3 centres will be more closely aligned and integrated.  My Department is currently undertaking work with the support of external consultants to establish the details of the future operational arrangements for the centres. This is an important measure in the action plan I am preparing to address the deficiencies in the maritime safety and emergency response services identified in the Value for Money reviews.

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