Vol. 556 No. 4
62 Mr. McCormack asked the Minister for Defence if there are plans to purchase new troop and equipment carrying aircraft for the Air Corps; the type of aircraft available for such use by the Defence Forces; and his views on whether the existing position is satisfactory. [20462/02]
The position is that the Air Corps does not have a troop or equipment transport at present. The Minister currently has no plans to purchase such a capability. However, should the requirement arise in the future for security or operational reasons the matter will be reviewed.
Does the Minister agree in the wake of 11 September that it is in all our interests that we have the ability to protect our airspace and our country? Is the Minister of State aware that not so long ago an attempt was made to board an Irish airline in a foreign country by someone who was armed?
Does the Minister of State not agree that neutrality is a nonsense if we do not have the capacity and the capability to protect that neutrality? Is she satisfied that we have that ability at present as far as our air cover is concerned?
The Deputy will be aware that we have a very fine defence force, 10,606 in number who are constantly being trained and re-trained to cater for every eventuality. They are very well equipped with the most up to date equipment which might be needed for changing circumstances. As he knows, at the moment the Air Corps has 17 fixed wing aircraft and 12 helicopters which are used for various purposes, be they for basic pilot training, twin-engine pilot training, fisheries surveillance, air ambulance and search and rescue purposes.
With regard to transport capabilities, as referred to in the question, that is done by chartered aircraft. We are quite satisfied that the ability and numbers of our Defence Forces is sufficient.
Written Answers follow Adjournment Debate.
