asked the Minister for Defence, in respect of all petrol driven vehicles under the direct control and responsibility of his Department, the steps he has taken to ensure that only unleaded petrol is used by such vehicles; in respect of such vehicles (a) the number of vehicles concerned, (b) the approximate number of miles travelled per annum and (c) the date when a decision to use unleaded petrol was taken and implemented; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Written Answers. - Unleaded Petrol.
80.
Limerick West): All petrol driven vehicles held by the military authorities may use unleaded petrol provided modifications are carried out to their engines. The question of carrying out these modifications and the supply of unleaded petrol is being examined at present.
A programme for the conversion of vehicles to use diesel fuel commenced during 1988 and vehicles purchased since July 1988 have been diesel engined. It is intended that vehicles acquired in the future will also be diesel operated. A total of 1,250 petrol driven vehicles with an annual mileage of about eight million miles is operated by my Department.