Olivia Mitchell (Dublin South, Fine Gael)
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Question 88: To ask the Minister for Transport if, in relation to the two recent incidents in which two Irish-registered aircraft were grounded at Prestwick Airport resulting from a bomb scare, he has satisfied himself with the decision taken to keep passengers on board for a prolonged period; if this unsatisfactory practice will not be repeated on any Irish aircraft; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16256/06]

Martin Cullen (Waterford, Fianna Fail)
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I am aware of the general circumstances surrounding the recent hoax bomb scares on a Ryanair and Aer Arann aircraft. Both airlines have furnished initial reports on the incidents to my Department. I understand that Ryanair has also been in touch with the UK Department for Transport in the matter.

Given that the bomb threat warning was detected while each aircraft was flying within UK airspace, it was a matter for the UK Authorities to implement their contingency planning arrangements to address the particular security emergencies. I understand that the UK Authorities are reviewing the handling arrangements for these particular emergencies. The House will wish to know that I have written to Mr. Alistair Darling, MP, UK Secretary of State for Transport concerning the handling of the both incidents by the UK Authorities with particular regard to delays relating to the disembarkation of passengers and crew from both aircraft upon arriving at Prestwick Airport.

Finally, I have asked the National Civil Aviation Security Committee to establish if there are any lessons to be learned insofar as emergency planning procedures for aviation in the State is concerned. The Committee will be meeting shortly. This Committee which is chaired by a senior official from the Department of Transport comprises representatives of Government Departments, Dublin Airport Authority, airlines, the Garda Siochana, the Defence Forces, An Post, Customs and Excise, Irish Aviation Authority and the Irish Airline Pilots Association.