asked the Minister for Tourism and Transport if he has received from the air traffic control personnel, requests for new equipment; if so, the cost of complying with those requests; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Written Answers. - Air Traffic Control Equipment.
22.
Arising from recommendations of the consultancy firm Price Waterhouse, who carried out a review of the air navigation services office on my behalf, I authorised earlier this year a major re-equipment programme for the air navigation services office. This programme will involve capital expenditure by the State of up to £30 million over the next five to six years on the installation of new and replacement equipment at the three State airports. The investment programme is already well underway and £1.5 million is being spent by my Department in 1987. Further expenditure of £3 million is planned for 1988.
The management and staff of the air traffic control service make proposals for new equipment for their services on a regular basis. These proposals have been taken into account in preparing the proposed re-equipment programme.