Paul Kehoe (Wexford, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

Let me be clear that no decision was ever taken to prioritise the ministerial air transport service over the provision of top cover for search and rescue missions. When I was informed of the situation in the Air Corps regarding its plan to suspend the standby roster for out-of-hours and weekend contingencies, I directed that a meeting be held immediately between Department officials and the military authorities. I requested them to look at options to safely maximise the availability of aircraft for those services which were not the subject of specific service level agreement targets, those provided on an ‘as available’ basis. This includes top cover and inter-hospital transfers.

The key issue identified by the military authorities at the time was the loss of experienced pilots qualified to fly the relevant aircraft, that is fixed-wing CASA maritime patrol aircraft and the rotary wing AW139 helicopter, which resulted in an inability to staff the standby roster for out-of-hours and weekends. It was determined that standing down the ministerial air transport service was not a solution for the roster or for improving availability outside of normal hours for those as available services.

In response, I have ensured that a range of actions have been put in train which are intended to increase relevant pilot and other specialist numbers. This will lead to improved availability of Air Corps aircraft in the medium-term. I also want to assure the Deputy and the House that in the event of a national emergency all Air Corps assets and personnel can be recalled and tasked as required.

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