The Pat Kenny Show Coast Guard pilots say conditions have worsened since the Rescue 116 tragedy
Nov 5, 2025
Conor D. McGuinness, Sinn Féin TD from Waterford and Chair of the Oireachtas Committee on Fisheries and Maritime Affairs, shares urgent concerns about Coast Guard pilots' working conditions. He highlights issues regarding fatigue from 24-hour shifts and new operator rules limiting rest time. McGuinness discusses regulatory complexities and alleges miscounting of working hours. He stresses that proper rest standards are crucial for safety, not just crew availability, pointing to significant implications for scheduling and crew numbers.
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Fatigue Risk From Shift Accounting
- Coast Guard crews report fatigue and safety risks from the current 24-hour shift system logged as shorter hours.
- Conor D. McGuinness says this undermines readiness and may breach working-time rules.
On‑Site Accommodation Increasing Duty Time
- Bristow now requires crews to stay in provided accommodation rather than go home while on call.
- McGuinness argues this change increases on-site duty time and reduces quality rest.
Update Rules To Match Rescue Aviation Risks
- Review and clarify aviation work-time rules to match Coast Guard risk profiles.
- Update scheduling to guarantee adequate rest and true compliance with directives.