Emer Currie
Ceist:56. Deputy Emer Currie asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Defence if his Department has taken steps to expand the Air Corp pilot training programme to be provided by other EU member states. [53500/25]
Amharc ar fhreagraTuesday, 7 October 2025
Ceisteanna (56)
Freagraí scríofa
I fully support training cooperation between the Defence Forces and other international armed forces, where it is deemed appropriate by senior military leadership and where resources allow.
Such cooperation enables the Defence Forces to train and develop its personnel and maintain the capabilities necessary to enable them to fulfil the roles laid down by Government. In this regard, I am advised by the military authorities that while training for the award of Pilot wings under the Air Corps Pilot Training programme is not currently conducted within other EU States, Military Pilots do undergo a range of training activities within EU countries, including Sweden, Italy, Germany and Spain, as necessary. International training of this kind is a vital element of building up capabilities and interoperability, and the Defence Forces will continue to avail of these opportunities going forward.
The Air Corps currently has a strong pipeline of trainee pilots, in addition to a cohort of experienced pilots and I am satisfied that the training programmes in place are robust and in line with international best standards.