Billy Timmins (Wicklow, Fine Gael)

Does the Minister agree that losing the search and rescue service in the north west was a morale blow to the Air Corps? This service it provided was akin to what the overseas service is to the Army. It may be more difficult to get pilots to remain in the Air Corps when they are not involved in operational activities and are only involved in training. Has he had representations from the GOC or the commanding officer of the Air Corps to examine other areas outside its military remit, for example, the air ambulance service, whereby it could assist the public?

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