asked the Minister for Tourism and Transport the reason it has been necessary to introduce an allocation of £210,000 in respect of an insurance premium for air navigation services; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

I decided earlier that it would be prudent for the State to take insurance cover in respect of air navigation services provided by my Department. Similar action has been taken by some other countries. The cover has been taken out so as to ensure that the State's liability would be covered in the event of it being found that an aircraft accident was attributable in whole or in part to fault or negligence on the part of my Department or their employees.