Robert Troy (Longford-Westmeath, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I think we all want to be associated with the Minister's words regarding the awful tragedies both recent and earlier in the year and we offer our condolences to the families affected by them. Our thoughts are with the families still looking for their loved ones.

Regarding this heading, the recent tragedies very much highlight the important role the Coast Guard plays. Following on from the comments of Deputies Catherine Murphy and Munster on examining the possibility of putting it on a statutory basis, the Minister gave an indication, which he has reiterated today, about his availability to meet a group of the representative body of the Irish Coast Guard. When will this take place? If they have spoken to me, I am sure they have spoken with other political parties, and their strong view is that it needs to be put on a statutory basis. I am interested to know when the Minister intends to meet with them.