Emergency Services

Tuesday, 14 April 2026

Ceisteanna (663)

Barry Ward

Ceist:

663. Deputy Barry Ward asked the Minister for Transport the reason that, when search and rescue crews are required to remain at work for a 24-hours period, their working time is not being recorded in full in accordance with the requirements of the European Communities (Organisation of Working Time) (Mobile Staff in Civil Aviation) Regulations 2006 [S.I. 507/2006] insofar as crews on-call at their place of work must record that full working time; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24300/26]

Amharc ar fhreagra

Freagraí scríofa

Minister of State at the Department of Transport

The regulation of aviation safety in Ireland is the responsibility of the Irish Aviation Authority (IAA) in line with its statutory powers. This role involves the oversight by IAA of all aspects of aviation safety in the Search & Rescue (SAR) aviation sector, including crew working and rest hours. As Minister for Transport, I would have no function in this regulatory process.

Any issues relating to terms and conditions of employment, concerning shift patterns and the calculation of “factoring” hours, for example, would be a matter for consultation between SAR crews and their employer (Bristow Ireland) in the first instance.

It is understood that Bristow Ireland has established consultation frameworks in place with the recognised representative organisations for SAR crews (IALPA and FORSA) where these matters are regularly discussed.

In the event of any disputes or disagreements arising in relation to the terms and conditions of employment, the dispute resolution machinery of the State would be available to the parties concerned.

Question No. 664 answered with Question No. 644.