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Tuesday, 12 May 2026

Ceisteanna (344)

Paul Lawless

Ceist:

344. Deputy Paul Lawless asked the Minister for Transport given the number of fatalities along the Irish coastline in recent years, whether consideration has been given to the use of drone technology to deploy lifesaving equipment, such as lifebuoys or flotation devices, to persons in distress at sea; whether drones could be strategically based at Garda stations and operated remotely from a central hub to support emergency response times; if any feasibility studies, pilot projects or inter-agency discussions (including with An Garda Síochána, the RNLI, the Coast Guard or local authorities) have taken place in this regard; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34312/26]

Amharc ar fhreagra

Freagraí scríofa

Minister of State at the Department of Transport

The number of fatalities in Irish waters in recent years is deeply regrettable. My department, through the Irish Coast Guard, operates a 24/7/365 emergency service, and in 2025 provided life saving assistance to 1,941 individuals, either preventing loss of life or ensuring timely access to medical care.

The Irish Coast Guard (IRCG) utilises Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) in support of search and rescue operations, maritime casualty and pollution response services. UAS assets are strategically deployed across 18 Coast Guard stations and operate in complement to rescue boats, cliff and land search and rescue resources as well as helicopters and fixed-wing aircraft.

The IRCG’s UAS capability continues to develop with enhanced operational coverage and the introduction of UAS with increased operating parameters. IRCG UAS are not currently employed for payload transport however integration of emerging capabilities across all aspects of the response service to complement and support existing operations remains an ongoing operational consideration.

The IRCG regularly conducts operations and exercises with partner Principal Emergency Services, and with neighbouring States, providing UAS, aviation, marine and land search and rescue resources.