Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 28 April 2021
524. Deputy Darren O'Rourke asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the estimated cost of replacing State vehicles which are owned by his Department or agencies under his remit with hybrid or electric models; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22566/21]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Department of Foreign Affairs purchases motor vehicles to facilitate the functioning and operations of its HQ units and its Missions abroad and we are committed to procuring vehicles with a reduced environmental impact throughout their life-cycle. Under the Department’s updated official vehicle management policy, and in line with our Green Foreign Ministry policy, new and replacement vehicle purchases must now comply with our policy of minimising our carbon footprint. Factors like pollutant emissions, fuel efficiency and noise levels are taken into account when preparing vehicle specifications. The procurement of electric vehicles is given strong consideration by default followed by consideration of hybrid options. However, it should be noted that some our Missions operate in difficult environments where security and health and safety issues will be a significant factor when deciding on an official vehicle.
Overall, the Department owns 175 vehicles between its HQ and its 90 Missions abroad. Given the variety of locations in which the Department operates abroad, including locations where hybrid or electric vehicles are not viable options, it is not possible to provide estimated costs for replacing all vehicles owned by the Department with hybrid or electric models. However, in 2020 the Department completed the purchase of 14 vehicles (12 cars and 2 motorbikes) at a cost of €361,339. Of the 12 cars, 8 were hybrid or electric, of which 5 replaced non-hybrid or electric models. The cost of the hybrid/electric vehicles was €219,310.
The Department will continue to seek to purchase hybrid or electric vehicles wherever possible and expects to spend similar funds on such vehicles in the coming years.
