Paul Kehoe (Wexford, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I hope that the commission's report and recommendations will be with Government by Q1 2019. I understand the interim report will be made to Government by the end of this year. The Government will consider the recommendations made by the pay commission on that occasion.

On the air ambulance service, a number of options were suggested by the Air Corps. Members will be aware there is a huge shortage of pilots, as highlighted recently by the Air Corps and by me on the public record. The air ambulance will continue to operate. It has been a fantastic service for the mid-west and the whole of Ireland.

On the working time directive, a civil military group has been established to address the issue and discussions on it are also ongoing with PDFORRA. The Department of Employment Affairs and Social Protection is addressing the legislative requirement in this regard.

On CASA, a request for proposals was issued earlier this year. The final competitive request for tenders is being finalised and will be issued shortly to the shortlisted companies.