asked the Minister for Transport and Power if arrangements have been made, or are being made, to expand and modernise the Aer Lingus fleet to bring it into alignment with other European airlines.
23.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Aer Lingus Aircraft.
22.
asked the Minister for Transport and Power if he will give full consideration to the speed and additional safety factors now about to be available when considering replacement of existing aircraft.
24.
asked the Minister for Transport and Power if, in view of the increasing demand for up-to-date jet aircraft, he has made full enquiries from all firms who manufacture such machines with a view to modernising the existing turbo-prop aircraft of Irish airlines.
25.
asked the Minister for Transport and Power if he is aware of the advantages of automatic landing capability in future modernised aircraft, and of the fact that Aer Lingus's pool partner, BEA, will shortly be traversing all European routes with such aircraft; and, if so, if he will make a statement relative to the matter in the light of the needs of Aer Lingus.
With the permission of the Ceann Comhairle, I propose that Questions Nos. 22, 23, 24 and 25 be taken together.
Aer Lingus have, for some time, been considering the acquisition of jet aircraft for operation on their continental services and the company have submitted certain proposals to me in regard to the financial arrangements which are at present under consideration. As indicated in my reply to the Deputy on the 28th June, 1962, a decision to purchase such aircraft would necessitate an increase in the capital of the company and the enabling legislation would afford the Oireachtas an opportunity to consider the matter.
The selection of the type of aircraft most suitable for their purposes is a matter for the company. I am satisfied that in the selection of the most suitable type of aircraft, the company make full inquiries regarding the various types of aircraft which are available and that account is also taken of such safety and automatic landing equipment as may be available.
Could the Minister indicate to the House if Aer Lingus have given consideration to all major aircraft firms who are in a position to produce up-to-date aircraft?
The Deputy can take it that the selection of the type of aircraft most suitable for their purposes is a matter for the company and that I am satisfied that in the selection of the most suitable type of aircraft, the company make full inquiries regarding the various types of aircraft which are available.
While I appreciate the effect of the Minister's reply, I do not think he has answered the question I asked. Have Aer Lingus received tenders from or interviewed all major firms manufacturing aircraft?
I think the Deputy had better wait till the Minister comes back.
I should like to have my answer now. It would appear that the Minister has been sent in here without being properly briefed. A very important matter is involved here.
I have indicated that all suitable types of aircraft are considered and that when the enabling legislation comes before the House, the Oireachtas will have a full opportunity of discussing the matter.
The Minister has not answered one of my questions. Could he indicate if the automatic safety landing equipment has been considered in the purchase of aircraft or not?
The Deputy and I do not appear to be able to communicate effectively. I stated in my original reply that account is also taken of such safety and automatic landing equipment as may be available.
I am afraid I cannot accept that answer because I happen to know a firm that has automatic safety landing equipment and that firm has not been approached by Aer Lingus.
If the Deputy would give me specific information on some of the firms he thinks have not been approached I can communicate it to the Minister.
I shall give it here publicly. The Trident Aircraft Company, from whom BEA have purchased, have not been given consideration by Aer Lingus or their directors.
I could not possibly accept that, but I shall pass the name on to the Minister for Transport and Power anyway.
Will the Bill to which the Minister refers be considered in the House before the contract is placed?
Not necessarily.
Then how can the Minister use the Bill as an excuse?
Deputies can criticise the Minister if they think a wrong decision has been made.