Vol. 556 No. 4
70 Ms McManus asked the Minister for Defence the position regarding consideration by the Government of a replacement for the Gulf Stream IV jet; the details of new aircraft which have been leased for the ministerial air transport service, including the terms and cost; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [20519/02]
The Gulfstream IV aircraft was leased in 1991 for a period of ten years for the transport of Ministers and officials. It was purchased in December 2001 on termination of the lease. The Minister has no plans at present to replace this aircraft. Tenders were received in September 2002 for the lease of a ten to 12 seater executive jet aircraft for a year to support the ministerial air transport service as a replacement for the Beech Kingair in its MATS support role. Tenders are at present being evaluated and it is expected that a decision will be made in the near future.
