Vol. 549 No. 2
57 Mrs. B. Moynihan-Cronin asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if the Cabinet has sanctioned the acquisition of a new Garda helicopter; when it is expected that the helicopter will be operational; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6073/02]
The Government approved the purchase of a second Garda helicopter in November 1998. A tender competition was held and an EC 135 was ordered. That helicopter has now been constructed and fitted out with special police equipment. The acceptance procedures for the EC 135 helicopter have recently been completed. Some additional work is being carried out on the EC 135 and, in the interim, the helicopter is remaining with the contractor in the UK.
In November 2001, I established an interdepartmental committee to oversee, facilitate and assess the contracting out of pilotage and maintenance of the EC 135 for a trial period. This committee has met on a number of occasions and is currently exploring a number of piloting and maintenance possibilities taking into account factors such as efficiency and cost-effectiveness. The committee is expected to furnish an interim report to me soon.
