Barry Andrews (Dún Laoghaire, Fianna Fail)

I do not have any copies. In normal circumstances the ushers circulate copies. I will undertake to ensure they will be provided to Deputies at the earliest time possible. I appreciate their flexibility.

The proposed contract represents a dramatic increase in funding for search and rescue helicopter services in Ireland, from approximately €30 million to €50 million per annum. This is an increase of €20 million a year for this service alone in difficult circumstances. The Government has also approved the retention of four helicopter bases, including Waterford, for a period to at leas 2023. The new contract represents a stepped improvement in the capacity range, speed and capability of Ireland's SAR service.

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