(1)   Can details be provided of the unavailability of any of the primary and secondary Cairns Search and Rescue aircraft since the Australian Maritime Safety Authority (AMSA) contract was let in March 2005.

(2)   Can the department provide the reasons given for the unavailability of either aircraft.

(3)   Can details be provided of what alternative arrangements were made by Aero Tropics when either aircraft was unavailable.

(4) (a)   At any time was search and rescue training disrupted by the unavailability of either aircraft; and (b) can details be provided of the disruptions.

(5)   Can a copy be provided of the entire Daily Status Report required to be submitted to AMSA concerning the two aircraft specified under this contract.

(1)   AMSA records show the primary aircraft was unavailable between 9 May and 5 June 2005. Under the search and rescue contract, the secondary aircraft is only required to be available when the primary aircraft is unavailable.

(2)   AMSA records show that the primary aircraft was unavailable because it was undergoing a Phase 4 check and wing spar strap modification.

(3)   The secondary aircraft provided the contracted search and rescue services while the primary aircraft was unavailable between 9 May and 5 June 2005.

(4) (a)   No. (b) Not applicable.

(5)   Yes.