Clare Daly (Dublin North, United Left)
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36. To ask the Minister for Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation whether he has conducted any research or investigation into employment practices in the aviation sector given the particular importance of staff welfare in an employment which has critical functions in terms of the safety of passengers; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [28415/15]

Gerald Nash (Louth, Labour)
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I am aware of a study of atypical employment in the European aviation sector which was commissioned by the European Social partners in the aviation sector and which was published earlier this year.

I understand from my colleague the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport, who has responsibility for the aviation sector, that the European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) has competence for all areas of aviation safety in the EU and is best placed to give an expert view on any potential safety impacts of various working arrangements.

Earlier this year EASA established a working group to examine Developing Business Models in Aviation. The Irish aviation authority participates in the working group and its work is ongoing.

Legislative packages in both the transport and social policy sphere are included in the new Commission's work programme, both of which will be relevant for employment in the aviation sector. This is an important sector for Ireland and my Department liaises closely with the Department of Transport, Tourism and Sport on such matters.