John Connolly (Galway West, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context

249. To ask the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport further to Parliamentary Question No. 51 of 26 March 2025, if the review of processes by his Department relative to the Irish coast guard building programme has been completed; the outcome of the review process and the current position of all projects on the building programme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [44544/25]

Seán Canney (Galway East, Independent)
Link to this: Individually | In context

The Department of Transport is responsible for the Irish Coast Guard (IRCG) building programme, which is funded by the Department as Approving Authority under the Infrastructure Guidelines. The Office of Public Works (OPW) acts as Contracting Authority, overseeing all aspects of project delivery - from planning and design through to construction and ongoing maintenance.

The IRCG delivers the State’s maritime search and rescue (SAR) responsibility through a SAR aviation contract and network of 44 strategically located Coast Guard Units staffed by volunteers. The primary objective of the building programme is to enhance maritime emergency response through the provision of modern, fit-for-purpose facilities for IRCG volunteers.

The Department of Transport, in close partnership with the OPW, is committed to ensuring IRCG units nationwide are supported by facilities that meet the highest standards for operational readiness and public safety while also delivering value for money for the Exchequer.

An Assistant Secretary General post, dedicated solely to the IRCG, was established in 2023 with responsibility for ensuring appropriate governance and oversight across the service. As part of a broader transformation programme across the IRCG, a key focus has been the undertaking of a review of how facilities are provided for our IRCG Volunteers, with specifications that are appropriate to requirements. This exercise has involved extensive engagement with the OPW, and it is expected that an agreed strategy document, with an associated implementation plan and prioritisation methodology, will be finalised before the end of this year.