Charles Flanagan (Laois-Offaly, Fine Gael)

I regret we do not have sufficient time to probe the matter of aerodromes in a meaningful manner. Does the Minister accept a report published in February this year which states that seven aerodromes frequented by aeroplanes of international origin have not been inspected or had a visitation by anyone in the customs service? The situation in our private airports, airstrips and aerodromes is farcical. The Minister stated this was prioritised but this is simply not the case. Will the Minister concede that airstrips and aerodromes have not been inspected? How can we expect to have a war on drugs or make progress if our coastline is virtually unguarded as we have only one scanner and one ship and our aerodromes are not inspected?

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