Dáil Éireann debate -
Wednesday, 21 Oct 1998

Vol. 495 No. 5

Written Answers. - Official Travel.

Ivan Yates

Question:

110 Mr. Yates asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food the total expenditure by his 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 his 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 he will make a statement on the matter. [20651/98]

Minister for Agriculture and Food (Mr. Walsh)

The following is the information requested in respect of Aer Lingus, British Midland and Ryanair — the three major airlines — in 1997. A total of £548,803 was paid to the Aer Lingus account. A further £18,272 was paid to Club Travel Ltd. in respect of flights covered mainly by British Midland and Ryanair.

Final decisions have recently been taken by the five group tender boards, representing the 28 Departments and offices engaged in the tender process, and the contract documents are currently being drawn up.

I am aware of a claim by one particular airline that it can save up to £2 million per annum on one route within Europe. The policy in my Department is that travel must be organised in the most efficient and cost effective manner available bearing in mind the need for flexibility and quality of service.