Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 15 February 2017
311. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Taoiseach and Minister for Defence the extent to which all military aircraft, fixed-wing and helicopters remain available and in operational order to the Air Corps in the event of emergency and search and rescue operations; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7758/17]
Amharc ar fhreagra313. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Taoiseach and Minister for Defence the extent to which all military vessels and equipment remain ready and in operational order in the event of emergency or rescue operations; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7760/17]
Amharc ar fhreagraI propose to take Questions Nos. 311 and 313 together.
My priority as Minister with Responsibility for Defence is to ensure that the operational capability of the Defence Forces is maintained to the greatest extent possible so as to enable the Defence Forces to carry out their roles as assigned by Government.
Defence Forces personnel and equipment are available for deployment in response to any security and other emergencies that may arise.
With reference to Search and Rescue, the Irish Coast Guard has overall responsibility for the provision of Search and Rescue services within the Irish search and rescue region. Both the Naval Service and the Air Corps provide support to the Irish Coast Guard in maritime Search and Rescue operations and a Service Level Agreement is in place setting out their roles and responsibilities in this regard.
I can confirm that the Defence Forces keep their operational plans and response capabilities for dealing with a wide range of emergencies and threats under constant review. On an ongoing basis I receive advice in this regard from the Chief of Staff and I am satisfied that every effort is put into maintaining the level of resources available to the Defence Forces, including access to equipment and modern technologies and training to enable the Defence Forces to carry out their numerous roles both at home and overseas.
