Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 30 March 2022
67. Deputy Jackie Cahill asked the Minister for Defence if there is an available 4x4 vehicle and van to aid in the transportation of equipment which would be in a position to be donated to Tipperary search and rescue; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16752/22]
View answerThe Department of Defence regularly receives requests for donation of vehicles from various voluntary organisations. The Department maintains a policy in relation to disposal of both Civil Defence and Military vehicles.
Civil Defence vehicles are kept under the control of the relevant local authority. Based on public procurement and asset control guidelines the Department of Defence policy is that Civil Defence vehicles can only exit service through a Registered Motor Trader via part exchange or by way of a certificate of end of life destruction. Alternatively, they may exit service through a public auction process.
Military vehicles undergo regular maintenance and overhauls to ensure they are roadworthy. When, having regard to age, condition and mileage, vehicles are considered by military transport personnel to have reached the end of their economic life, the vehicle is withdrawn from operational service and proposed for disposal. Military vehicles are normally disposed of in accordance with the provisions of the ‘End of Life’ Vehicle Regulations. It would not be appropriate to transfer ownership of a military vehicle which is not deemed to be roadworthy to an organisation for the purpose of being driven on public roads.
I am aware that Tipperary Civil Defence, which is funded by both the Department of Defence and Tipperary County Council, has for many years provided a volunteer based search and rescue service in Tipperary. As well as a team of trained volunteers Tipperary Civil Defence has a wide range of equipment for use in assisting the Principal Response Agencies during search and rescue operations. This includes 4x4 vehicles, Command and Control vehicles, boats, drones and search dogs.
Unfortunately it is not possible to accede to your request.
