asked the Minister for Defence when it is expected that delivery will be secured of the helicopters for rescue work, etc., which are on order; and when they will be available for use in this country.

120.

asked the Minister for Defence when helicopters will be available for rescue and other purposes.

With your permission, a Cheann Comhairle, I propose to take Questions Nos. 119 and 120 together.

As already stated by me on 11 Meitheamh, 1963, in reply to a number of Parliamentary Questions, a contract has been placed for the supply of three helicopters and associated equipment. Delivery of two helicopters is expected before the end of 1963 and the third machine will be delivered in Aibreán, 1964. Under this arrangement a modified rescue service, though of limited capacity, will, it is expected, be capable of being set up after Nollaig, 1963.