Jack Chambers (Dublin West, Fianna Fail)
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77. To ask the Taoiseach and Minister for Defence his views on the fact that Air Corps air traffic control continues to operate on restricted timelines due to inadequate trained manning levels. [40002/18]

Paul Kehoe (Wexford, Fine Gael)
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As with other areas of the public service, challenges have arisen in relation to the recruitment and retention of personnel in particular areas of expertise. The loss of experienced personnel is driven by a range of factors, including the availability of attractive job opportunities in the wider economy.

The Air Corps is experiencing a shortage of trained Air Traffic Control (ATC) personnel which has necessitated a reduction in operating hours. Actions are underway to return to previous levels of ATC services. ATC training is taking place. Options to ensure the longer term sustainability of ATC services in Baldonnel are also being identified.

It is important to note that while actions are underway, there is a requirement to continue to build the capacity of the Air Corps and it will take some time for a return to previous levels of capability.