David Stanton
Ceist:15 Mr. Stanton asked the Minister for Defence the role of the Defence Forces in the operation of the Government jet; the Government plans in this regard; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24471/01]
Written Answers. - Ministerial Air Transport Service.
Liz McManus
Ceist:40 Ms McManus asked the Minister for Defence the position regarding consideration by the Government of a replacement of the Gulfstream IV jet; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24455/01]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 15 and 40 together.
The ministerial air transport service is currently operated by the Air Corps using the Gulfstream IV executive jet, acquired in 1991, as the principal aircraft. The service is based in Casement Aerodrome, Baldonnel.
The aircraft resources required to provide a ministerial air transport service commensurate with current and projected requirements were considered earlier this year following which the Government decided that the Gulfstream IV will be retained in service and not replaced.