Coast Guard Service

Tuesday, 10 February 2026

Ceisteanna (353)

Pearse Doherty

Ceist:

353. Deputy Pearse Doherty asked the Minister for Transport to clarify if his Department recognises an organisation (details supplied) as representing coast guard members who are now members of that union; if the Department will enter into formal negotiations with the organisation in respect of those volunteers; and if not, to set out the specific legal or policy basis relied upon in refusing to do so; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [9663/26]

Amharc ar fhreagra

Freagraí scríofa

Minister of State at the Department of Transport

Irish Coast Guard Volunteers play a vital and invaluable role in the Irish Coast Guard’s national response capacity. More than 900 volunteers serving across 44 units are trained and equipped to respond to those in need or distress. The recognised advocacy body for these volunteers is the Coastal Unit Advisory Group (CUAG) which is composed of serving Coast Guard Volunteers elected by their peers to represent their interests. CUAG is the sole organisation formally recognised by the Irish Coast Guard as representing Coast Guard Volunteers. The Irish Coast Guard has not been contacted by any other organisation.

The Irish Coast Guard remains in active and constructive dialogue with CUAG regarding a range of matters, with a shared commitment to improving the volunteering environment and the services delivered to the public.