Air Accident Investigations

Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 22 November 2017

Wednesday, 22 November 2017

Ceisteanna (95)

Imelda Munster

Ceist:

95. Deputy Imelda Munster asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport his views, and the actions taken by his Department, in response to recent media reports that indicate that concerns were raised repeatedly with a group (details supplied) in the past number of years regarding locator beacons on life jackets which were not installed correctly; if the attention of the Irish Aviation Authority was drawn to these complaints; and if so, when it became aware of these complaints; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [49285/17]

Freagraí scríofa

Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport

It is absolutely vital that all of the factors around the R116 crash are fully investigated by the expert aviation investigators in the Air Accident Investigation Unit (AAIU). The Air Accident Investigation Unit (AAIU) investigates on a wholly independent basis and is charged under domestic law and international obligations with examining all relevant issues it determines are pertinent to the incident it is investigating.   

We owe it to the families and to the colleagues of the crew that the AAIU investigate this thoroughly and without outside interference or conjecture of any kind, and to report all findings for action across the world. The investigation is still ongoing.  I can say no more about the issues surrounding it. Once the final report issues, I can assure you that all findings and recommendations will be pursued with all relevant parties as a matter of priority.