The families of the four Air Corps helicopter crew who died in the Tramore Dauphin crash over four years ago have criticised the decision by the Minister for Defence to axe Air Corps search and rescue.
The wife of one of the Air Corps pilots who relocated to the north-west search and rescue base in Sligo has also expressed shock and anger at the move.
Ms Joanne Carter, wife of one of the 10 pilots and mother of a 14-week child, said that the decision, and the way it was relayed, had come as a dreadful blow after months of effort.
"Three families bought houses in Sligo, and one spouse, a teacher, changed her job and cannot hope to return to work in Dublin until next September," she said.
Mr Vincent Byrne, father of Cpl Niall Byrne who died with colleagues Capt Dave O'Flaherty, Capt Mick Baker and Sgt Paddy Mooney at Tramore in July 1999, said that the decision showed a complete lack of political interest and will in maintaining a vital service. "This Minister never wanted to be involved in search and rescue, or pay for it, and he used a dispute within the service to shed his involvement," Mr Byrne told The Irish Times.
Last week, when making the announcement, the Minister, Mr Smith, had referred to "blue flu" in the service which had resulted in relocation of winching crews.
"However, it is the duty of management to resolve such disputes." Mr Byrne said.
The Minister has said that a private operator, CHC Ireland, will take over the north-west base. The company already runs the medium range rescue services for the Irish coast guard at Shannon, Dublin and Waterford.
Mr Tony Baker, father of the late Capt Mick Baker, questioned the Minister's authority to announce this without first going to tender.
Mrs Monica Mooney, wife of the late Sgt Paddy Mooney, said that the decision was "absolutely disgraceful". Mrs Maria O'Flaherty, wife of the late Capt Dave O'Flaherty said that it was "terrible" decision.
