Pádraig Mac Lochlainn (Donegal North East, Sinn Fein) | Oireachtas source

A number of members had the honour of visiting Baldonnel and, in that context, I repeat what I said earlier about the professionalism of Air Corps staff. It makes one very proud when one sees the calibre of people who are representing the country at that level. It is understandable that the Air Corps regularly submits requests for upgrades, new planes and to have older aircraft replaced. Those in charge want to have the best aircraft and equipment to the members of the Air Corps in order that they can do their jobs properly. I tabled a parliamentary question on this matter previously and I would like the Minister to indicate whether there is a biannual budgeting process for the Air Corps or are matters dealt with on a year-by-year basis? How does the process work? What is the position if the Air Corps wants to replace three aircraft that are over 20 years old? People get their cars serviced regularly but eventually they must be replaced. Must aircraft be replaced when they reach a certain age and, if so, how does this fit in with the Government's budgetary process?