Denis Naughten (Roscommon-South Leitrim, Independent)
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409. To ask the Minister for Defence when the review of the operation of the aeromedical service will be completed; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29069/13]

Denis Naughten (Roscommon-South Leitrim, Independent)
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410. To ask the Minister for Defence his plans to expand the role of the Air Corps aeromedical service; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29070/13]

Alan Shatter (Dublin South, Fine Gael)
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I propose to take Questions Nos. 409 and 410 together.

A twelve month pilot Emergency Aeromedical Support (EAS) service established in order to assess the level and type, if any, of dedicated aeronautical support needed to assist the National Ambulance Service, primarily in the West of Ireland, commenced operations on the 4^th of June 2012. The review of the pilot is currently being finalised by an inter - service Audit and Evaluation Group and a Report will be presented to my colleague the Minister for Health shortly. Following a request from the Minister for Health, I have agreed to extend the Air Corps' participation in the pilot for a period of up to three months in order to allow him an opportunity to give consideration to the Report.

The Air Corps will maintain its current role during the period of the extension.