Jimmy Deenihan (Kerry North, Fine Gael)

Regarding our air transport capability, does the fact that the Government is spending approximately €20 million on leasing aircraft not make the case for having our own air transport capability? Owing to the costs involved, which will probably exceed €20 million before the end of the mission in Chad, is it something the Government would seriously consider? Regarding Question No. 131, the Minister mentioned that there is €37 million in the Estimates. The total cost of the mission will be €57 million. From where will the shortfall of €20 million be made up?

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