Vol. 474 No. 6
16 Mr. Molloy asked the Minister for Defence his views on the fact that his Department received, in the 1997 budget, the lowest percentage increase of all Departments, barely exceeding the cost of living increase; if the Defence Forces will be in a position to update equipment, armaments and transport so vitally necessary at present; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3664/97]
Expenditure by the Department of Defence is provided for in two Votes, the Defence Vote and the Army Pensions Vote. As indicated in the abridged version of the 1997 Estimates for Public Services published prior to the budget, gross expenditure on the Defence Estimate and the Army Pensions Estimate for 1997 represents an increase on the 1996 Estimates of 3 per cent and 21 per cent, respectively. The overall increase is about 5.5 per cent.
The amount provided in this year's Defence Estimate for various types of equipment, transport and buildings is approximately £61 million, an increase of 13 per cent on the 1996 Estimate provision.
I am pleased to hear that. What items of equipment will be purchased with the moneys available to him?
During 1997 major new projects, such as a new aircraft hanger at Baldonnel, a new dining complex for non-commissioned Naval personnel at Haubowline, a new dining complex for troops at Collins Barracks, Cork, extensive upgrading of the ammunition depot at the Curragh Camp, provision of new stores and workshops at Cathal Brugha Barracks, Dublin, and upgrading of various accommodation blocks are due to commence.
What accommodation blocks?
The locations will be identified in accordance with military requirements.
This sounds familiar.
The Deputy is very cynical today. We are making good progress and members of the force are very happy.
It is just as well the Minister said that.
In the area of military tactical communications, a programme is in progress to provide a modern VHF combat radio net with voice and data compatibility. The first phase of the programme was effectively completed in 1996 with the delivery and putting in place of 400 radios and ancillary equipment. The facility will be further expanded this year with the delivery of approximately 270 additional radio units, with associated equipment, bringing total investment in this area to more than £9 million. In addition, we sought tenders for a new Naval vessel and they are being assessed. We are seeking advice from the Naval Service in this regard and hope to put the matter out to full tender soon and start work this year.
I am grateful for the information the Minister has given, but he has not given any information about armament purchases to replace old and obsolete equipment.
I am guided by what the military prioritised for funding. Radio equipment is essential for the armed forces. Military personnel are the professionals in this area and I do not profess to know more than they. However, having visited Haubowline I am anxious to proceed with a new dining complex for non-commissioned personnel who are eating in appalling conditions. I am delighted we are in a position to start that complex this year. From the point of view of protecting our investment in aircraft, particularly the CASA, a new hanger is badly needed in Baldonnel. I am pleased the military agreed to include both those projects under this year's programme.
I am surprised the Minister cannot give details about armament purchases. I can only conclude there will not be any under this programme.
I will consider proposals put to me by the military. They can tell me if they need new armaments, but I have not received a request in that regard.
There will always be a long shopping list in that area.
I am sure the Deputy will agree there has been a substantial increase in the moneys available to the military.
