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Dáil Éireann debate -
Wednesday, 8 Nov 2000

Vol. 525 No. 3

Written Answers. - Defence Forces Equipment.

Frances Fitzgerald

Question:

181 Ms Fitzgerald asked the Minister for Defence the timetable for investment in new aircraft for the Air Corps. [25134/00]

The Government fully recognises that there are urgent equipment modernisation requirements in the Air Corps. In recognition of these requirements, I was pleased to announce on 1 March 2000, the allocation of a total of up to £55 million over the next three years for this purpose. These funds will initiate vital investment in new aircraft for the Air Corps.

The first indicator of this investment is the current project for the acquisition of medium lift helicopters for the Air Corps. This major investment programme involves the acquisition of two medium lift helicopters, with an option of a third, for search and rescue purposes as well as an option of two medium lift helicopters for general purpose military transport.

The tender competition is being carried out in two stages, a request for proposals – RFP – stage and a request for tenders – RFT – stage. Responses to the RFP were received in the Department on 21 September 2000. Six responses were received. Those responses are now being evaluated in the Department with a view to drawing up a short list of contenders for the RFT stage. It is expected that the RFT stage will commence early in the new year.

Policy decisions will be taken, as appropriate, on the other aircraft requirements of the Air Corps and funding will be made available, as required, to meet those needs.

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