Department of Defence

Have the Air Corps investigated whether they have sufficient fixed wing aircraft & pilots trained to provide 24/7 cover for Search and Rescue (SAR) Services with 15 minute take-off capacity. -Does the Air Corps have a sufficient number of AW139's with trained crew to provide 24/7 SAR Services for: North West, West, South East & East or any one of these areas. Please provide details. -Does the Air Corps have trained Drone operators which could be used to augment SAR operations?-Are the Air Corps currently training crews in: Night Flying, Winch Operations, Medical/First Aid -Which would enable the Corps to engage fully 24/7 in SAR operations. Has the Air Corps investigated the costs associated with providing full SAR services including cost/benefit analysis of aircraft purchase or leasing. - Has any report on the Air Corps ability to tender for the SAR service been prepared for the Officer Commanding the Air Corps Helicopter Wing, the General Officer Commanding the Air Corps, The Deputy Chief of Staff Operations or the Chief of Staff?