Dáil Éireann debate -
Wednesday, 21 Oct 1998

Vol. 495 No. 5

Written Answers. - Official Travel.

Ivan Yates

Question:

69 Mr. Yates asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the total expenditure by her Department on the three major airlines in 1997; when decisions will be taken in relation to the tendering arrangements for air travel services for civil servants and employees of public State enterprises; if her attention has been drawn to a claim by one airline that the Government can save up to £2 million per annum on one route within Europe; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [20654/98]

Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment (Ms Harney)

The total expenditure by my Department with the three airlines referred to by the Deputy, in the 12 months ended 31 December 1997 is as follows:

Airline	Amount
	£
Aer Lingus	128,271.93
Ryanair	549.90
British Midland	21,788.80

The tender arrangements for air transport, travel agency, tour operator and tourist assistance services relate to official travel by Government Departments and offices. Final decisions have recently been taken by the five group tender boards representing Departments and offices, including my Department, engaged in the tender process. I understand that the individual tenderers have been notified accordingly and that contract documents are currently being drawn up.

I am aware of a claim by one airline that they can save up to £2 million per annum on one route within Europe. Under current air travel policy, set out in a recent travel policy statement issued by the Department of Finance, all Departments/offices must ensure that, consistent with their particular requirements, the best value for money is obtained and they must be prepared to use the services of all airlines operating out of Ireland.