Vol. 576 No. 3
23 Mr. Rabbitte asked the Minister for Defence if there are plans to alter the procedures with regard to the use of the Government jet in any way during the period of the Irish Presidency of the EU; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26332/03]
The Government jet, a Gulfstream GIV, is part of the ministerial air transport service which is provided by the Air Corps to facilitate members of the Government in fulfilling their official engagements at home and abroad. The use of the Government jet requires the approval of the Taoiseach. Requests for the use of the service are made by Ministers' private secretaries to the Taoiseach's office where they are examined with regard to the need and purpose of travel. Once approved, all operational matters are settled directly between the Minister in question and my Department.
I am not aware of any plans to alter the procedures with regard to the use of this service.
