Dinny McGinley
Question:13 Mr. McGinley asked the Minister for Defence when it is expected to have the new Government jet delivered. [29356/03]
Written Answers. - Ministerial Transport.
Michael D. Higgins
Question:45 Mr. M. Higgins asked the Minister for Defence if the Air Corps has yet taken delivery of the Bombardier Learjet 45 to augment the ministerial air transport service; the total cost of the acquisition of the aircraft; the total cost of maintenance contracts; if all crew members have now received appropriate training in the use of the aircraft; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29446/03]
Bernard J. Durkan
Question:61 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Defence the number of Government jets to be purchased; the cost of each; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29621/03]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 13, 45 and 61 together.
A contract has been signed with Bombardier Aerospace for the purchase of a Bombardier Learjet 45 light business jet for the ministerial air transport service. The Learjet will replace a 23 year old Beech Super King Air aircraft. The cost of the aircraft, including training and spares, is €8.4 million, excluding VAT. The cost of the aircraft is being funded from savings achieved from the 2003 Department of Defence Vote provision for personal injury compensation. The acceptance and delivery of the aircraft will take place in mid-December 2003. No other aircraft is being leased in the interim. The maintenance package for the aircraft is expected to cost in the region of €250,000 per annum. Appropriate training of Air Corps personnel is well in hand and will be completed shortly.
The Learjet 45 will operate in tandem with the Gulfstream IV in providing a ministerial air transport service for members of the Government. The use of the service requires the prior approval of the Taoiseach. The question of leasing other aircraft for the duration of the Irish Presidency of the EU is not being considered by my Department.