Written answer
Departmental Reports
275. Deputy Gillian Toole asked the Minister for Transport the current implementation status of each of the three Safety Recommendations Nos. 28, 29, and 30, directed at the Minister in the AAIU Final Report on the Rescue 116 accident, published in November 2021; the specific actions taken to date in respect of each recommendation; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [17894/26]
Comment on this
As Minister of State for International & Road Transport, Logistics, Rail & Ports, I have responsibility for the Irish Coast Guard and the SAR Aviation Contract.
Recommendation number 28
The review of extant service level agreements with stakeholders involved in IRCG helicopter operations to ensure that they are suitably robust and complete is ongoing. The completion of the contract transition process in February 2026 now provides the basis for the finalisation of the review of MOUs / SLA’s, having regard to the new enhanced service specifications available under the new contract. It is intended to complete a revision of the following MOUs / SLAs, which have implications for Helicopter operations, Department of Health, National Ambulance Service, MEDICO Cork, and Defence Forces. This process is augmented by an established series of scheduled meetings where all matters pertaining to Coast Guard helicopter operations are reviewed.
Recommendation number 29
The Coast Guard has two contracts in place for provision of aviation expertise, one contract applies to the transition of the 2012 contract service to the new Coast Guard Aviation contract, known as the 2023 contract, and the other applies to provision of aviation advice and the operation of an independent audit process for the new contract. My Department will continue to periodically evaluate best options for provision of aviation advice and expertise either under contract or by direct employment of a subject matter expert.
Recommendation number 30
Safety recommendation No 30 was addressed to the Irish Aviation Authority and concerns the review of its arrangements, guidance and procedures for civilian operators providing SAR services within the State. The actions taken in respect of this recommendation are a matter for the IAA.