The effect of increases in fuel costs in the Department of Defence arise in relation to the provision of heating and electricity in the various offices of the Department. Expenditure in 2005 amounted to €315,350 while costs in 2006 are likely to be of the order of €500,000. In addition to the offices of the Department increased fuel costs have also had an impact on the Defence Forces. The expenditure in 2005 and provision in 2006 for the various fuel requirements across the Defence Forces are as follows:
Item
|
Expenditure in 2005
|
Provision for 2006
|
|
€
|
€
|
Heating and electricity
|
4,840,000
|
5,600,000
|
Fuel for vehicles
|
2,880,000
|
3,000,000
|
Fuel for aircraft
|
2,180,000
|
2,450,000
|
Fuel for Naval Service
|
3,840,000
|
2,500,000
|
The quantity of fuel purchased in by the Naval Service in 2005 included a reserve stock which allows for a lower level of expenditure in 2006. A number of fuel economy measures operate throughout the Defence Forces, the main one being expanding the use of diesel vehicles, use of fuel treatment and the use of the most economic vehicle for each journey.