Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 4 October 2023
61. Deputy Alan Kelly asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Defence the up-to-date position regarding the purchase of a new Government jet; and if the contract for same is likely to be put out to tender before year-end. [42916/23]
Amharc ar fhreagraFollowing a review of extensive Public Spending Code work carried out on behalf of the Interdepartmental Ministerial Air Transport Service Review Group, I instructed my officials to move the MATS project to procurement stage, setting the goal of a MATS solution which would also encompass a broader utility role, including strategic reach in crisis situations and medical evacuation.
A civil/military team was established to progress the project; the team have settled the minimum aircraft specification and are finalising work to identify the most appropriate procurement strategy for the replacement aircraft, in line with the relevant regulatory and legal procurement frameworks. It is anticipated that the first stage of the procurement process will be launched over the coming weeks.
