Dáil Éireann díospóireacht -
Tuesday, 4 Nov 2003

Vol. 573 No. 3

Written Answers. - Ministerial Transport.

Bernard J. Durkan

Ceist:

202 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Defence the position in relation to the purchase, lease or otherwise hire of the Government jet; if one or more aircraft is being considered; the anticipated cost; the tendering procedure followed or to be followed; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25628/03]

Minister for Defence (Mr. M. Smith)

The Government decided on 23 July 2003 not to proceed with the acquisition of a long-range aircraft to replace the Gulfstream IV aircraft in the ministerial air transport role. The decision was taken following a review of expenditure and budgetary issues.

Following a tender competition carried out in accordance with EU tendering procedures, a contract has been signed with Bombardier Aerospace for the purchase of a Bombardier Learjet 45 light business jet, seven to nine-seater, for the ministerial air transport service. The cost of the aircraft, including training and spares, is €8.4 million, excluding VAT. The cost of the aircraft is being funded from savings achieved from the 2003 Defence Estimates provision for personal injury compensation. Acceptance and delivery of the aircraft will take place in December 2003. The Learjet will replace a 23 year old Beech Super King Air aircraft in the ministerial air transport role.

Question No. 203 answered with Question No. 158.