Written answer
Coast Guard Service
The fixed-wing service began in May 2025; costs were €13.6 million in 2025 and €8.1 million to August 2026, with Air Corps takeover after August 2028 conditional.
163. Deputy Pádraig Rice asked the Minister for Transport the annual value of the fixed-wing element of the Irish Coast Guard search and rescue aviation contract (details supplied), separately identified from the value of the rotary-wing element; the date on which the five-year term of the fixed-wing element expires; if the provision made in that contract for the Air Corps to assume responsibility for the fixed-wing element after five years has been assessed, and by whom. [66163/26]
Comment on this
In his capacity as Minister of State for International & Road Transport, Logistics, Rail & Ports, my colleague Seán Canney T.D, has responsibility for the Irish Coast Guard and the SAR Aviation Contract.
The contract for the Coast Guard Aviation Service, which includes a fixed wing service, commenced on 11 August 2023; consequently the fifth anniversary will fall on 10 August 2028. The fixed wing service commenced in May 2025.
The operating costs consist of fixed monthly standing charges and variable operating costs based on flying hours, fuel charges, and incidental operating expenses. In 2025, this amounted to €13.6m and in 2026 this amounted to €8.1m up to end of August.
The contract allows for an extension to the existing fixed wing service in accordance with the terms in the contract. The tender also made provision for consideration of the Air Corps to provide the fixed wing service after five years, subject to it being willing and able to meet IRCG/DoT requirements.