asked the Minister for Justice if he will state if tenders for the supply of new ministerial State cars were invited in the public Press, and, if so, in what papers these advertisements appeared, and if he will also state the total amount of the estimated contract for the supply of such cars in the next four years.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Tenders for State Cars.
Tenders for the supply of new ministerial cars were not invited in the public Press. Particulars of the full range of cars available are generally known and the smaller-type cars chosen were regarded as the most suitable for the individual requirements of the Ministers concerned.
As regards the second part of the Deputy's question, the total cost of replacing worn-out cars in the next four years is estimated at £50,000.
Could the Minister say how many makes of cars were considered in trying to arrive at the most suitable car? Secondly, could the Minister tell the House the name of the lucky firm chosen to supply the cars?
First of all, with regard to the type of car. I think the Dodge, Ford, Chevrolet, Mercedes, Humber, Rover, Austin, Zephyr, Zodiac and Vauxhall types of car were all considered. Two cars were eventually chosen — the Rover and Mercedes.
Would the Minister answer my second supplementary in regard to the name of the firm or firms chosen to supply the cars?
I am afraid I have not got that information.
That is surprising.
There will be another day.
I did not know I was going to cause such merriment here at all.
The Minister is as innocent as an angel.
There is an old saying about the vacant laugh.
Would the Minister not have the file in regard to the position of police cars in 1953 with him?