John Cummins (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I take the opportunity to speak about Rescue 117 and the search and rescue base at Waterford Airport. Since the pre-qualification questionnaire for the new contract was published prior to Christmas, there has been a considerable amount of speculation and an understandable concern expressed within the south east regarding the likely configuration of operations when the new contract is awarded. While the pre-qualification questionnaire is silent on the issue of bases, it does specify there should be a minimum of three helicopters and one fixed-wing aircraft, which some have suggested opens up the possibility of a base being dropped and that Waterford stands to lose out.

While I share the concern, I do not share the downbeat assessment that such a vital service would be lost to the region because of the following. I am a former member of the board of Waterford Airport and know the service provided by the airport to the existing contractor, which is CHC Ireland, is second to none. CHC Ireland is very happy with its base and operations at the airport. Great synergies have been built up with the likes of the Royal National Lifeboat Institution and South East Mountain Rescue over many years. Another reason I do not share the downbeat assessment is because over several months I have engaged with Government colleagues and the Tánaiste on this issue. I sought assurances that four bases will be specified in the ultimate tender that is issued and I am encouraged by the responses I have received today. Also, the Tánaiste will continue his dialogue with other party leaders in this respect.

The importance of maintaining a search and rescue base in the south east to service the vast swathes of maritime areas and inland areas along the south and east coast is critically important. The bravery and dedication of the crew that operate Rescue 117 give great comfort to the communities I represent. There is an opportunity at this moment to frame that tender to ensure there are four bases in the new tender that is ultimately issued. Geographically, the four bases of Waterford, Sligo, Shannon and Dublin have served the State well and I expect them to serve the State well into the future.