The head of the Irish Coast Guard claims Shannon has entered the next generation of emergency response.
It follows the official launch of its new aviation service, which includes two fixed wing aircraft stationed at Shannon on a 24/7 basis for the very first time.
So far this year, the Aviation Service of the Irish Coast Guard has already delivered over 200 missions.
It now enters a new era though, with the addition of two fixed wing Beechcraft B200 King Air planes at Shannon, that will complement the new model Leonardo AW189 helicopters in place since December.
Rescue 115 Captain Paraic Slattery says it will improve efficiency, communication and safety in emergency scenarios.
There had been turbulence in the transition from CHC to the new service operators Bristow Ireland, leading to complications on staff rostering for 24 hour shifts and medical evacuation calls.
However, Coast Guard Minister Seán Canney insists these have been well overcome and that Clare now has a world class service.
Coast Guard Director Mícheal O’Toole says it will futureproof operations here for generations to come.
You can listen to the full interview here:
