Paschal Donohoe (Dublin Central, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

The objective of the helicopters referred to in the Revised Estimates is coastal safety and to deal with what can happen at sea. They are used also for offshore transport from islands and can be used in the case of a medical emergency. Deputy Fitzmaurice asked about helicopter services for medical emergencies and I understand that in inland counties such services would be provided by the Air Corps or the Defence Forces in conjunction with the HSE. The primary role of the helicopters that are referred to in the Vote is coastal safety. There is a requirement to have these helicopters located at particular points in case anything were to happen offshore. We need to ensure we respect that requirement and for that reason the service in inland counties such as County Roscommon is provided by other helicopters.