asked the Minister for Tourism and Transport if he has examined the role played by Ballygirreen international radio station. Newmarket-on-Fergus, County Clare; and whether he has considered an expansion of the service.

As the Deputy is aware, the aeronautical radio station at Ballygirreen, which is part of the air navigation services office of my Department, is responsible, inter alia, for relaying air traffic control messages from the Prestwick Air Traffic Control Centre to aircraft flying between the US and Europe on the eastern half of the North Atlantic. The development of satellite communications could at some future date obviate the need for Ballygirreen station for this purpose. In view of the implications for the future of Ballygirreen, I have recently approved a proposal from my Department that consultants be engaged to conduct a special economic study in relation to the future role of the Ballygirreen station. Arrangements are at present being made to have this study carried out.

In view of the international renown of the station, can the Minister foresee this station providing a wider international service with the introduction of greater satellite service?

I am in agreement with the Deputy as to the desirability of the retention of Ballygireen for several reasons: because of its efficiency, because it provides employment for about 110 people and because of its dual role, including a meteorological role. All I can do is await the report of the consultancy firm. My thinking about it is along the lines I have just mentioned to the Deputy.

Does the Minister see a European role for this station and has he pursued anything in Europe in this regard?

As it controls the Eastern part of the Atlantic, it already has a European role. Another reason I would like to see its retention is that it is also a good money earner for the country.