Vol. 530 No. 4
103 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Defence if he has satisfied himself that the Air Corps has modernised sufficiently in line with international trends and requirements; if any such modernisation has put special emphasis on aircraft, equipment and training; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4220/01]
The issues mentioned were covered comprehensively in the report of the steering group on the Review of the Irish Naval Service and the Air Corps which was prepared by Price Waterhouse Consultants and in the White Paper on Defence which was published in February, 2000.
Arising from the consultants' report, and reflecting the policy parameters laid down in the White Paper, Air Corps management has submitted a draft implementation plan to me. I have approved in principle the proposed new Air Corps organisation and this will be put in place once consultations with the representative associations, which are at an advanced stage, are completed. In the meantime, other elements of the plan are being developed.
In this regard, the Deputy may be aware that I have announced a special additional £250 million investment programme for the Defence Forces, including about £55m. over three years for the purchase of new aircraft for the Air Corps, with special priority being given to the procurement of new medium lift helicopters.
The tender competition for the provision of the helicopters is well advanced and it is expected that the Department will be in a position to place a contract in the middle of this year.
Question No. 104 answered with Question No. 53.
Question No. 105 answered with Question No. 43.
Question No. 106 answered with Question No. 53.
Questions Nos. 107 and 108 answered with Question No. 43.
