Dáil Éireann debate -
Thursday, 15 May 2003

Vol. 566 No. 5

Written Answers. - Ministerial Transport.

Joe Sherlock

Question:

28 Mr. Sherlock asked the Minister for Defence the reason for the decision to replace the Gulf Stream IV jet having regard to figures showing that the aircraft had a very high level of availability, including a 99.26% level of availability during 2002; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13068/03]

John Gormley

Question:

45 Mr. Gormley asked the Minister for Defence his views on whether the G4 jet has at least 30 years productive life left in it and that it is premature to replace this aircraft; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13209/03]

Minister for Defence (Mr. M. Smith)

I propose to take Questions Nos. 28 and 45 together.

The Government decided to replace both the Gulfstream IV and the Beechcraft King Air in the ministerial air transport role. The decision to replace both aircraft was necessary to meet the ever increasing demands of Government business, not least in the context of a significantly enlarged European Union.

The Gulfstream IV has played an integral part in the operation of the ministerial air transport service since it was acquired in December 1991. The aircraft is in a fully airworthy condition and remains in service. The decision to replace the aircraft is based on the increased demands on the ministerial air transport service.

The tender competitions for the acquisition of the two aircraft are now in train. The closing date for the receipt of tenders for both competitions is Friday, 30 May 2003.

The tender competitions allow for the submission of both new and pre-owned aircraft. All options such as outright purchase, lease, lease purchase, or other alternatives will be considered. The highly competitive nature of the aviation market at present should result in competitive packages being offered.

In tandem with proposals for the supply of the aircraft, tenderers may also outline offers for the Gulfstream IV aircraft as at the proposed date of hand-over of the tendered aircraft or in mid-July 2004, following the EU Presidency. Offers for the Beechcraft King Air will also be considered in tandem with proposals for its replacement.

The acquisition of the aircraft will be the subject of detailed cost benefit analysis, including value for money and comparison with costs associated with alternative arrangements. The responses to the tender process will determine the most advantageous system of payment. The actual cost of the acquisition of the aircraft can only be defined after the tender competition particularly in view of the fact that pre-owned aircraft are a consideration. It is expected that the new aircraft should be available for operational service by 1 October 2003.

Question No. 29 answered with Question No. 7.