Aengus Ó Snodaigh (Dublin South Central, Sinn Fein)
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Question 1277: To ask the Minister for Defence his plans for the evolving role of the Air Corps in relation to search and rescue, national defence, EU defence, NATO's partnership for peace and UN peacekeeping and humanitarian missions. [1646/05]

Willie O'Dea (Limerick East, Fianna Fail)
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Two contracts have been signed for the provision of six new helicopters for the Air Corps, at a total cost of over €61 million — four new AB 139 helicopters and two EC 135 helicopters. Their primary role will be that of general purpose military operations and training. Primary taskings will include training and operations with the Army, security and aid to the civil power, military exercises, infantry interoperability training and limited troop transport. However, these helicopters will also be available to perform inland search and rescue, air ambulance, aid to the civil community and VIP transport tasks. The new aircraft when delivered will replace the existing helicopter assets, which comprise seven Alouettes, four Dauphins and one Gazelle. The helicopters we are procuring are designed solely to meet current requirements here at home. There are no plans, now or for the future, to deploy helicopters, or any other air assets, in support of overseas missions. However, should that become a requirement which needs to be met by the Defence Forces, it will obviously be examined in light of the relevant circumstances at that time.