59. Deputy Martin Ferris asked the Taoiseach and Minister for Defence the reason the Air Corps was not permitted to land at Baldonnel Aerodrome on 26 January 2019 with a child (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18801/19]

The HSE’s Aeromedical Desk in its National Emergency Operations Centre is responsible for the co-ordination of all medical air transport arrangements whether by the Coastguard, private operators or the Air Corps.

In relation to the availability of Baldonnel on the date referred to by the Deputy, I am advised by the Military Authorities that the HSE National Emergency Operations Centre requested permission to land and refuel for a Coast Guard Helicopter. The helicopter was travelling from Tralee to Dublin.

The HSE National Emergency Operations Centre informed the Air Corps Duty Officer that the tasking was not critical. Based on that information, the Duty Officer declined the request.