Bernard Allen
Question:223 Mr. Allen asked the Minister for Defence the plans he has to provide new field medical equipment to help support future peacekeeping missions; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26997/00]
Written Answers. - Defence Forces Equipment.
One of the 40 armoured personnel carriers on order is an ambulance variant. The ambulance variant is scheduled for delivery in November 2001 and will be available to support peacekeeping missions as required.
In addition, the Directorate of the Medical Corps is working on its requirements for field medical equipment. The Corps is researching the specification requirements for a demountable rack off-load and pick-up system ( DROPS) compatible modularised schedule of field medical equipment which will be available for deployment in future peacekeeping operations.
It is expected that tenders for the provision of this new equipment will be issued as soon as possible in 2001. A provision of £600,000 has been made in the 2001 Estimates to facilitate the purchase of the equipment.