Regards EU OPS etc, the service is quite legal operating as is - simply, the IAA doesn’t have their hands tied, it’s just that they’re not the regulator of the military.
No its not legal.
You are correct that the IAA do not regulate the military but they have an obligation under European law to regulate HEMS. ie the Department of Health should be stopped from using the military as a HEMS operation until such time as they comply with European law for HEMS operations.
With regards to the initial selection of the 135, the calls were expected to come from a much smaller area. One that was suitable for a 135. As time went on and the 139 took over, the calls coming from the whole country meant a bigger aircraft was required.
One 135 was for all practical purposes written off, including the EMS kit on board, with only one other in the fleet there was no option but to go to the 139.
As for the larger area of operations that only applies when you decide to ignore the 4 other AOC holding HEMS bases situated on all 4 corners of the country at that time. The fact that the HSE still don't utilise these aircraft fully and leave patients sitting needlessly around for extended periods to give preference to their own toy is a mater of national disgrace.
I'm sure the AAIU will give a completely honest and non-biased report
I doubt they will even be involved. Certainly haven't seen them mentioned in the press.