Statement on the publication of AAIU’s Final Report into R116 air accident

Minister Eamon Ryan T.D. and Minister of State Hildegarde Naughton T.D. acknowledge and appreciate the completion of the investigation into the R116 air accident. The accident claimed the lives of R116 crew members Dara Fitzpatrick, Mark Duffy, Ciarán Smith and Paul Ormsby in March 2017 and today marks the publication of the final report into this investigation by the Air Accident Investigation Unit.

The Department of Transport fully accepts the recommendations contained within the report and will continue to evaluate the findings of the report in the coming weeks.

Since receiving the draft Final Report in September 2019, the Department of Transport has undertaken a significant programme of change across key areas to take account of issues raised and recommendations addressed to the Minister of Transport.

Commenting on the publication of the AAIU R116 report Minister Ryan said:

“This was a tragic accident that claimed the lives of four individuals who were dedicated to saving the lives of others. I would like to again convey my condolences to the families and loved ones of the R116’s crew at this time. The completion of the investigation and the publication of the report is a key step in ensuring that such accidents are prevented in the future. I wish to acknowledge the investigative work that has been done by the AAIU that has culminated in this report. This is clearly reflected in the level of detail and wide-ranging nature of the report, with safety recommendations that cover all aspects of SAR aviation, both nationally and internationally.”

Minister of State Hildegarde Naughton added: “I would like to take this opportunity to again express my sincere condolences to the families and loved ones of the four members of R116’s crew, and to all who were affected by the accident. I understand that today’s publication of the AAIU’s Final Report will be a difficult time for all involved. I note the final report contains several safety recommendations addressed to the Department of Transport and I look forward to seeing all necessary work, much of which is already commenced, completed as soon as practicable. My door, and the doors of the Department, remain open to the families of the R116 Crew for any assistance that may be required going forward.”

Ministers propose to seek time in Dáil Eireann to allow for Statements on the matter.