Leo Varadkar (Dublin West, Fine Gael)

This is largely a regulatory issue. The IAA is the competent authority in this regard but I am keeping abreast of the matter. I agree with Deputy Dooley that this is primarily a matter of safety, and decisions will be based on scientific research. It is not primarily a labour relations issue.

There has been much scientific research published but it can be somewhat subjective taken in isolation. I am informed there has been no scientific study to date on the existing flight time limitation scheme as a complete package. The existing flight time limitation package has only been in place since 2008 and there has not yet been a comprehensive scientific study as to its effectiveness. It may be too soon to start changing the rules before the existing ones have been in place for a reasonable time.

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