Jerry Buttimer (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

You know what I mean. Come on. You are trying to wind down the clock.

The other point is the expertise. I recognise the input of the Air Corps, the Coast Guard and Defence Forces. I do not have the expertise and I am the first to admit it, but I have done extensive consultation and reading and I have been on the transport committee with Senator Craughwell. We got legal advice regarding the matter that is being discussed here today. I am all for stakeholder engagement but the fundamental point is that we must ensure that the search and rescue service is properly staffed and the staff are trained and equipped with the best of equipment. We must live up to our relevant international convention requirements. We have a national search and rescue plan. Ultimately, what we are talking about today is the men and women who go out every day and help to protect and save lives. It is the provision of assistance to people in dangerous situations.

I welcome the debate today. I thank Senator Craughwell for putting the motion before us. It is important that, as the Minister for Foreign Affairs, Deputy Coveney said, we recognise the Air Corps and its involvement and the value of the current contract. The Government countermotion is quite extensive. It is not just a copy-and-paste job; it is an in-depth response. I welcome the Minister of State, Deputy Naughton.