Imelda Munster (Louth, Sinn Fein)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

630. To ask the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport if members of the Irish Coast Guard are permitted to enter the water in an emergency situation. [24708/17]

Shane Ross (Dublin Rathdown, Independent)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

The IRCG maintains a network of strategically located Coastal Units equipped to deal with local marine emergencies. Coast Guard volunteer teams are trained in search skills, first aid, setting up helicopter landing sites and a variety of maritime skills. In the event of an emergency in or on the water particularly in the event of a person in water (PIW) it is impossible to preclude that on occasion Irish Coast Guard Volunteers may have to enter the water. The IRCG Safety Statement in addition to IRCG Operational Memorandum provides guidelines and standards to members to safeguard their health and safety while engaged in Coast Guard activities. Under the Irish National Maritime Search and Rescue (SAR) Framework, Garda Divers are a resource that the Irish Coast Guard may request for assistance with under water searches. In addition, the Naval Service Divers are available to the Irish Coast Guard and are used for under water searches, recovery, survey and training. The Naval Service can also provide underwater survey equipment, hyperbaric facilities and advice.