Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 17 February 2026
194. Deputy Donnchadh Ó Laoghaire asked the Minister for Defence further to recent Dáil debates, her views on past health and safety measures in the Air Corps; the actions she intends to take to support former aircraft maintenance and ancillary personnel; whether she intends to ensure their medical needs are met; and the other supports that can be offered to the category affected as a whole. [12517/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraI want to thank Deputy O Laoghaire for providing me this opportunity to update him on this matter.
As the Deputy is aware, from previous direct engagements with my officials, and from my response to this question on the occasion of our last oral PQ session, this matter is receiving detailed consideration.
I have benefitted from an initial brief from my officials and have sought a comprehensive report which I will consider in addition to further discussions with interested stakeholders such as the State Claims Agency. As the Deputy is aware, the State Claims Agency is managing, on my behalf, a number of personal injuries claims from individuals alleging historic harm.
As I am sure the Deputy will appreciate, as there is ongoing litigation, it limits my ability to discuss this matter publicly in any depth, or with respect to any allegation of the kinds of exposure that the Deputy has referenced in his question.
I want to assure the Deputy that I am treating it with the utmost seriousness but I also want to ensure that it receives the most detailed and critical consideration. This in-depth consideration is due to be concluded, with a report provided for my consideration, before the end of Quarter 1. I will ensure that the matter continues to be focused on as a priority within the Department.
