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Dáil Éireann debate -
Wednesday, 29 Mar 2000

Vol. 517 No. 1

Written Answers. - Defence Forces Investment.

Ivor Callely

Question:

119 Mr. Callely asked the Minister for Defence the level of investment in the modernisation of equipment for each of the years 1985 to 1995; the likely comparison level of investment in the years ahead; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [9243/00]

Investment in new equipment for the Defence Forces in the period 1985 to 1995 was reflected by expenditure under the subheads of the Defence Vote relating to defensive equipment, mechanical transport, general stores, aircraft and ships and naval stores. The total amount expended each year in those areas was as follows:–

Year

£M

1985

30.86

1986

38.03

1987

26.67

1988

35.84

1989

20.40

1990

25.19

1991

30.97

1992

30.67

1993

28.83

1994

35.35

1995

35.07

The subheads comprised expenditure relating to equipment acquisition as well as maintenance, upgrading and operational costs. As regards year on year comparison of the amounts it should be noted that some rearrangement of the content of subheads was necessary during the period for accounting purposes.
The corresponding expenditure is estimated at £75 million in the current year and £95 million in 2001. The Deputy will be aware that in the context of considering the White Paper on Defence the Government conveyed approval for the allocation of 100% of pay savings arising from the reduction in the approved strength level of the Permanent Defence Force, together with 100% of the revenue arising from the sale of property surplus to military requirements, for investment in equipment and infrastructure for the Defence Forces. In addition a special allocation of £5 million a year for the next 5 years is being provided to help fund the equipment requirements of the Air Corps.
The savings arising from the restructuring of the Defence Forces are estimated at £20 million per year – a total of £200 million over the ten year period covered by the White Paper. Together with the revenue of at least £50 million expected from the sale of the six barracks, this will result in a level of investment in the Defence Forces which will ensure that the Army, Air Corps and Naval Service are fully equipped with the most modern equipment to carry out their roles at home and overseas.
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