Air Corps 'must be given role in search and rescue operations'

The Air Corps is in the process of significantly strengthening its fixed-wing aircraft fleet, having committed to over €260m on four new PC-12s, which have been delivered, and two new C295s which will be delivered in early 2023. Picture Colin Keegan, Collins Dublin

The Air Corps must be given a role in the country’s search and rescue (SAR) operations, rather than relying on private contractors, the Government has been urged.

The Department of Transport is developing a new marine SAR aviation contract for future service provision.