asked the Minister for Justice if he will elaborate on the use of Air Corps helicopters by the Garda referred to by him in his announcement on 4 September 1980; if the helicopters in use by the gardaí referred to will be transferred to Garda control; and if consideration is being given to the transfer of aircraft or helicopters to the Garda from the Air Corps.

I indicated in my announcement that aircraft assistance for the Garda would be operated by the Air Corps until such time as the Garda Síochána procured their own aircraft. Such assistance is provided for a variety of operations, including the rapid transport of personnel, as may be required from time to time by the Garda. No consideration is being given to the transfer of helicopters from the Air Corps to the Garda Síochána.