Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 17 November 2020
82. Deputy John Lahart asked the Minister for Defence the progress in acquiring a strategic airlift capability, particularly in view of recent difficulties and delays on UN rotations; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [36617/20]
View answerMy immediate priorities in relation to air-based capability have been the acquisition of three Pilatus PC-12 aircraft in the Intelligence, Surveillance, Target Acquisition and Reconnaissance (ISTAR) role and for two Airbus CN 295 maritime patrol aircraft. No decisions have made for the acquisition of additional aircraft in other roles. Some €265 million, including VAT, is currently committed to the acquisition of these enhanced capabilities.
Along with other equipment capability requirements, the acquisition, renewal and retention of equipment capabilities are being pursued under the Defence Forces Equipment Development Plan (EDP) published in June 2020. This sets out current priorities and plans taking account of available resources and in line with the policy approach in the White Paper on Defence. While the option of acquiring a wider military lift capability has been mentioned, it is not identified as an action in the present EDP. Much of this longer range lift capability is provided by way of chartering aircraft through a competitive procurement process on an as-required basis. To date, this has been considered to be the most cost effective approach taking account of the acquisition, running and maintenance costs of larger aircraft in the context of their expected usage and contingency requirements. The overall priorities in the EDP will remain under review as it is progressively implemented and taking account of funding availability.
Delays and difficulties in relation to UN rotations are not caused by the chartering of aircraft.
Personnel rotations, even in normal times, are complex operations involving diplomatic clearances from each country for overflights, landings and transit which can result in delays given the lead times for securing such clearances.
Given all the variables it is not possible to guarantee absolute rotation dates, particularly at this time. Personnel are now all advised of the indicative date of rotation and are updated on an on-going basis by their commanding officers.
I know delays and changes in rotation dates impact both on the troops and on their families and friends. That is why no effort is spared by the staff in the Department of Defence, the Department of Foreign Affairs and our embassy network to ensure that the required clearances are secured in as timely manner as possible. However, we are dependent on other State administrations. We will continue to work with the United Nations and the relevant government authorities to deliver as much certainty as possible for rotating troops.
