David Stanton (Cork East, Fine Gael)

I thank the Ceann Comhairle for allowing Deputies to raise this important issue. I am disappointed, however, that the Minister for Transport is not present to hear our contributions.

The two lifeboats based in Youghal and Ballycotton in my area work closely with the Coast Guard helicopter service in search and rescue operations. My colleagues referred to accidents and tragedies. One of the busiest shipping lanes in the world is located only 50 miles south of Youghal, Knockadoon, Ballymacoda, Ballycotton and Cobh. Moreover, pleasure boating has increased significantly in recent years and we are hoping to have new marinas in the area shortly. This is important in light of the strong emphasis on tourism at present. People become sick and have heart attacks on boats and ships. Time is, therefore, of the essence.

I could not believe the news that we would only have a daytime service in the region as a result of the night service being removed from Waterford. The decision does not make sense. The crews in Waterford know the region and have trained in the area, which is important in the case of services of this nature. If the newer helicopters are faster than the current fleet, why not locate them in Waterford and have a 24 hour service in the region? I understand the new helicopters are smaller and may not be able to carry as many survivors.

In the matter of saving lives, which is what we are discussing, time is of the essence and minutes count. Irrespective of whether someone has had a heart attack on a ship or boat or somebody is in the water, it is vital that help arrives as quickly as possible. I am afraid that this decision, if implemented, which I hope will not be the case, could put lives at risk. Let us see sense and stop the measure.

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