Jack Chambers
Ceist:80. Deputy Jack Chambers asked the Taoiseach and Minister for Defence the engagement he has had with a group (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [48381/18]
Amharc ar fhreagraWednesday, 21 November 2018
Ceisteanna (80, 89)
Bríd Smith
Ceist:89. Deputy Bríd Smith asked the Taoiseach and Minister for Defence if he or his officials have met with representatives of a group (details supplied); the progress he has made in addressing the issues it has raised; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [48390/18]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
I propose to take Questions Nos. 80 and 89 together.
I have not met with any group as described by the Deputies. I did however meet with two individuals in relation to the matters raised.
As I have clearly stated to this House, the health and welfare of the men and women of the Defence Forces are a priority for me.
In this regard, there are a number of processes already in train relating to reviewing health and safety procedures in the Air Corps. Firstly, in September 2016, I appointed an independent third party to review allegations made in a number of protected disclosures relating to health and safety issues in the Air Corps which were received in late 2015 and early 2016. The report of the independent third party review was received by my Department in June 2017. Although the report found that the Defence Force's regime appears to be capable of meeting statutory requirements, it makes a number of observations including in relation to documentation, health surveillance, and exposure monitoring. It also notes that the Health and Safety Authority (HSA) is the appropriate statutory body to deal with such matters. I sent the report to those who had made disclosures for their views and I am considering the next steps in the process having received those views and in the context of ongoing litigation.
Separately, and in parallel to the independent review, following an inspection in 2016, the Air Corps has continued to work with the HSA to improve its health and safety regime. I have been informed by the military authorities that the HSA has formally noted the considerable progress made to-date by the Defence Forces towards implementation of a safety management system for the control of hazardous substances. Subject to completion of the improvement plan, the HSA investigation is closed. However, it must be noted that Air Corps health and safety is a matter of ongoing monitoring, supervision and adjustment. The Air Corps is fully committed to implementing improved safety measures that protect workers from potential exposures to chemicals and will ensure risks are as low as reasonably practicable.
As litigation is ongoing it would be inappropriate for me to comment further.
Question No. 81 answered with Question No. 66.
Question No. 82 answered with Question No. 68.