Darren O'Rourke (Meath East, Sinn Fein) | Oireachtas source

I thank the witnesses for being present and apologise for missing their opening statements. I was caught in the Chamber but I have read through them. I echo what Deputy Carey said in commending the witnesses on what they have established. We had hearings here a number of months ago when we were hearing, mainly privately, the deep concerns that were held by volunteers and former volunteers of the coastguard. From my perspective, it did not align well with what we were hearing back from officials in the Department or the Irish Coast Guard. It is commendable to stand up. I know the witnesses have individually and collectively sacrificed over the years. It is important to point to the extensive experience within the Irish Coast Guard Volunteers Representative Association and beyond. That tells a tale and should not go unnoticed.

I will try to move it on a little bit. The witnesses will have heard the exchange the last time. What needs to change? What has changed in the recent weeks and months since we had previous hearings? Is it enough? What more needs to change? I will pick up on a previous point. We will hear from the Coastal Unit Advisory Group, CUAG, in the next session. I expect there have been some changes there. The witnesses have pointed to some changes that have happened there in the recent past. Are they enough?

It is significant that CUAG is an advisory group. The Irish Coast Guard Volunteers Representative Association is a representative group. Has the latter group had meetings with the Minister? Is it recognised? Is it established in that way? What does the future look like? Is there a need for CUAG to continue? Will it take on an advisory role, along with the Irish Coast Guard Volunteers Representative Association? Will there be a blending of the two? How does that configure?