Mr. Eugene Clonan:

I can answer that question. Deputy Troy has a Bill on the books. On a number of occasions in recent years the Minister has heard views on the case for a stand-alone statutory authority. At the time in question the Minister was not convinced of the net value added. Once the Bill makes further progress, he will certainly be happy to provide his considered views on the merits and demerits of the proposal. My position, as acting director of the Irish Coast Guard, is that it is a policy decision. I get on with my job. We have the legislation, the SAR framework. We also have the interim report of the Air Accident Investigation Unit and a final report is due soon. We have the report of the Marine Casualty Investigation Board and there are issues therein that need to be reviewed and are under review. Certain issues with which we need to deal may be highlighted.