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Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 24 Oct 2000

Vol. 524 No. 5

Written Answers. - Defence Forces Equipment.

Willie Penrose

Question:

161 Mr. Penrose asked the Minister for Defence the results of the investigation as to whether or not counterfeit parts may have been used in Air Corps aircraft; if he has satisfied himself that no threat is posed to any Air Corps aircraft from such parts and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22971/00]

When the Air Corps was notified of the ongoing investigation into the supply of fixed wing aircraft parts from a company in the Shannon region, they completed a thorough technical audit of aviation spare parts received from sources associated with that company. The Air Corps had no direct dealings with the company under investigation.

The Air Corps hold approximately 12,000 inventory items for fixed wing aircraft. The number of parts with possible doubtful certification obtained from an Air Corps supplier of 15 years, which had emanated from the company under investigation, was 39.

The Air Corps audit reduced that number to four Marchetti aircraft items. Those four parts numbers were removed from the technical stores in Casement Aerodrome, Baldonnel and refunds will be obtained from the supplier.

While a number of Air Corps aircraft were grounded pending clearance, all aircraft are now cleared to operational status.

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