Donnchadh Ó Laoghaire (Cork South-Central, Sinn Fein)
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20. To ask the Taoiseach and Minister for Defence to outline, further to recent Dáil debates, his views on past health and safety measures in the Air Corps; the potential engagements with interested groups; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [60509/25]

Simon Harris (Wicklow, Fine Gael)
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I thank the Deputy for raising this matter with me today. It follows on from discussions we have had earlier in the year, on the question of the scope of the options available to me, in circumstances where there are a number of ongoing litigation cases.I would like to reiterate to the Deputy, that the ultimate priority for me and for the Defence Forces is the protection of the health and well-being of members of the Defence Forces in carrying out its essential service to the State.

In light of the ongoing litigation in this area, you will appreciate I am not in a position to go into specific elements of the cases that would cut across any matters central to questions that are currently before the Courts. However, I have – following our previous engagements – asked my officials to undertake a detailed evaluation of any potential alternative non-litigation related actions or options available to me.

This work has been ongoing, including detailed engagement with the State Claims Agency, who have been statutorily delegated the management of the current litigation cases, and who have an extensive remit and enormous experience in the areas of general claims and risk management services.

The Deputy will also be aware that the Statutory Tribunal of Inquiry has the power

to investigate the response to complaints made regarding the use of hazardous chemicals within Air Corps’ headquarters at Casement Aerodrome, Baldonnel and to consider the adequacy of the complaints processes in light of the responses to same.

As you are aware, following our previous engagement in relation to this issue, I offered for my officials to meet with you to hear your views. This invitation, to meet with my officials to allow them to hear and consider any views you might have, remains open to you. The detailed consideration that officials are currently undertaking is expected to be finalised shortly.