Jimmy Deenihan (Kerry North, Fine Gael)

A figure of €20 million justifies the call I made to the Minister for Ireland to have its own transport capability. The figure of approximately €50 million has been mentioned in respect of two smaller aircraft with the capacity to transport people to and from Chad.

Last year, the Defence Forces acquired six new helicopters built to military spec. Why are they not being taken to Chad? They are supposed to be used by the military for military operations. Why are we leaving our people exposed in Chad if we have these at home? What are they being used for?

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