In view of the information which the Minister has presented to us today in relation to the marine search and rescue services since 1982, could he now advise the House if he and his Department are in a position to recommend to Government the recommendations of the west coast search and rescue action committee report? Is he in a position to recommend to Government the basing of helicopters in Shannon?

When the west coast search and rescue committee presented their report in September, I had a very useful meeting with them and as far as I can gather they were very satisfied with the outcome of that meeting. I indicated on that occasion that I would ask the committee which was examining the case to examine that report as a matter of urgency and they have done that. I have got the report of the inter-departmental committee which has been submitted to the Minister for Defence and myself in the past few days. When we have an opportunity to examine it fully and reach decisions on it we will go to the Government to get a final conclusion; beyond that I am not prepared to go at this stage.

Mrs. Taylor-Quinn rose.

I must now call another question. I think I have devoted quite a lot of time to these questions.