Dáil Éireann debate -
Wednesday, 25 Apr 1990

Written Answers. - Permanent Defence Forces Transport.

Michael Bell

Question:

72 Mr. Bell asked the Minister for Defence if his attention has been drawn to the continuing reduction of transport in virtually every unit of the Permanent Defence Forces to the extent that in an emergency situation the effective operational efficiency of the Permanent Defence Forces would be severely restricted; if he has any plans to seek a subvention from the Department of Justice and from the banks for the use of transport which substantially increased over the last number of years and which adds greatly to the wear and tear of vehicles; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

Minister for Defence (Mr. Lenihan)

A programme for the modernisation of the Defence Forces transport fleet commenced in 1988. The programme is based on the disposal of obsolete and unserviceable vehicles and their replacement on a phased basis by new vehicles.

It is intended that about 130 new vehicles will be acquired during 1990 and that further vehicles will be purchased in subsequent years as financial resources permit. While the overall number of vehicles will be reduced I am satisfied that the replacement programme will in any event substantially improve the operational efficiency of the transport fleet.

The Defence Forces give assistance to the Garda Síochána in protecting movements of cash pursuant to their role of rendering aid to the civil power. In the circumstances the question of a subvention from the Department of Justice does not arise. Since the Defence Forces act in aid of the Garda Síochána in this situation the seeking of a subvention from the banks would not be a matter for my Department.