Paul Kehoe (Wexford, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

We are currently investing in new planes and replacing the CASA aircraft. We also have a service level agreement with the HSE. As with other areas of the public service, there have been challenges in recruitment and retention of personnel, particularly in areas of expertise such as air traffic controllers and pilots. Retirements of highly experienced Air Corps personnel are exceeding the number of replacement personnel being recruited and trained. The loss of experienced personnel is driven by a range of factors including the availability of attractive job opportunities in the private sector. Pilots are much sought after in the private sector and are being offered attractive remuneration. Significant work is under way within the defence bodies and in the Department aimed at improving the capacity of the Air Corps. A return to previous capacity levels will be gradual. I would love it if we were able to meet all of the requests made under the service level agreement. I met the Minister for Health and the HSE management on this. We have given them plenty of warning about the challenges we face.

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