Micheál Martin (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

There is a very clear commitment in the programme for Government to propose substantive reforms, a responsive political system, greater openness and improved accountability. On improved accountability, there was a rather disturbing report in this morning's edition of The Irish Timeson the questioning of the judgment of an experienced pilot by the former Minister for Defence of a flight that did not take off because of fog at Cork Airport. The former Minister rang the pilot, which I find extremely surprising. There were sharp exchanges between the two. There was also the revelation that the Air Corps was very unhappy as something like this had never happened in over 25 years. There are a number of key issues. First, it could be construed as intimidation or putting pressure on the pilot, although I am not saying it was. We have seen this happen in other countries and jurisdictions with terrible results. In other words, the issue of safety comes to mind. The professional's judgement should be final. I do not know whether the former Minister has clarified the report carried in The Irish Timesthis morning, but safety should never be compromised by anyone's diary and there should be clear protocols in place. Has the Government laid down clear protocols for this kind of thing in order that professional judgement on whether flights can take off can in no way be compromised? Has the former Minister been held accountable by the Government and has he been asked to apologise to the Air Corps about the incident?

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