Richard Bruton
Question:211 Mr. R. Bruton asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform his plans to replace ministerial cars; and the costs involved. [27961/03]
Written Answers. - Ministerial Travel.
State cars, which are placed at the disposal of Ministers and others under longstanding arrangements are supplied to the following: Taoiseach, Tánaiste, 13 Ministers, President, Chief Whip, Ceann Comhairle, Attorney General, Director of Public Prosecutions, Chief Justice and former Taoisigh and Presidents.
There are no set rules as to when ministerial cars are replaced but, in general, those which are two years old and-or have a mileage in excess of 100,000 miles are considered for replacement. Accordingly it is proposed to replace a number of ministerial cars. Orders are due to be placed soon for the following vehicles: seven Mercedes E240, one Mercedes E320 and one Volvo S80 2.5T. The final associated costs have yet to be determined. However, it is estimated that the cost of purchasing these vehicles will amount to approximately €550,000.