Dáil Éireann debate -
Wednesday, 15 Oct 2003

Vol. 572 No. 4

Written Answers. - Ministerial Transport.

Joe Sherlock

Question:

79 Mr. Sherlock asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the total cost of purchasing new cars for the ministerial car fleet for each year since 1998; the total running cost of the car fleet for 2003; his plans to consider cutting costs in this area; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23386/03]

Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform (Mr. McDowell)

I have been informed by the Garda authorities that the total cost of purchasing ministerial cars for each of the years concerned is outlined in the following table:

Year	Cost€
1998	480,350.35
1999	502,947.75
2000	551,408.28
2001	677,277.22
2002	597,438.75
2003	66,001.00(up to 30/9/03)

It is estimated that the total running cost of the ministerial cars for the year 2003, up to 30 September, is €2.2 million. The provision of the garda drivers, cars, fuel, maintenance and depreciation of the vehicles are the key components of cost to the Exchequer in providing State cars. These costs are paid from the Garda Vote and kept appropriately under review in order to maximise efficiency with regard to the provision of this facility.