Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 3 March 2026
254. Deputy Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Minister for Defence if an occupational cohort study into mortality in the Air Corps was ever carried out, as was recommended to the Air Corps two years ago by public health expert (details supplied) given that between 1980 and 2026, there have been around 700-800 deaths of serving and retired personnel, of whom it has been suggested that 115 of them died prematurely. [16293/26]
View answer255. Deputy Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Minister for Defence if it is intended to carry out a follow-up occupational cohort study into mortality in the Air Corps given that the previous one carried out by public health expert (details supplied) two years ago would seem to suggest that the need for a further, more in depth study be carried out. [16294/26]
View answer256. Deputy Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Minister for Defence when the occupational cohort study into mortality in the Air Corps will be carried out over two years ago by public health expert (details supplied) will be published; and if not, the reason. [16295/26]
View answerI propose to take Questions Nos. 254, 255 and 256 together.
I have been advised by the Air Corps that it has no record of ever been advised or directed to carry out any cohort mortality study. A recent preliminary study conducted by the public health expert referred to by the Deputy in details supplied, has been provided to my officials.
As I indicated in the Dáil on 16 December 2025, I have received an initial brief from my officials on the matter of Health and Safety in the Air Corps. I have requested a detailed report to be completed in Q1 of this year. I will take the time necessary to consider this detailed report and determine the most appropriate next steps, potentially including additional engagement with the State Claims Agency and the Office of the Attorney General.
Given that there is litigation currently before the courts, where there are historic allegations of personal injury in the Air Corps, it would not be appropriate for me to comment any further.
