Dáil Éireann debate -
Wednesday, 13 Feb 1991

Vol. 405 No. 1

Written Answers. - Fishery Aircraft Protection Services.

Phil Hogan

Question:

48 Mr. Hogan asked the Minister for Defence if he will give details of the precise aircraft being purchased for fishery protection services by his Department; and if he considers this aircraft the best available equipment for the duties envisaged.

Phil Hogan

Question:

49 Mr. Hogan asked the Minister for Defence if he will outline the various firms world-wide from which the Government sought tenders for the purchase of aircraft for the purpose of fishery protection and patrol; if he will assure Dáil Éireann that all manufacturers of aircraft for this purpose were asked to tender; if the Government engaged the services of an intermediary to purchase this aircraft; and, if so, the name of the intermediary and the commission paid.

Minister for Defence (Mr. Daly)

I propose to take Question Nos. 48 and 49 together.

Tenders were invited by advertisement in the Official Journal of the European Communities and aircraft manufacturers and suppliers were given the opportunity to tender for the supply of aircraft for the purpose of maritime surveillance of fishery resources. Thirteen tenders were received. It is not the practice to furnish details in regard to tenderers.

Negotiations are proceeding for the acquisition of the aircraft most suited to the Air Corps maritime patrol requirements but a contract has not been placed to date for the acquisition of the aircraft.

An intermediary was not engaged by my Department for the acquisition of the aircraft.