Brian O'Shea (Waterford, Labour)

My recollection is that the October budget called for a reduction of 44% and it has now moved to 48%. Where is the additional reduction of 4% implemented? Between the fixed-wing aircraft and helicopters, there are no fighter aircraft on the list. Does the Air Corps' lack of fighter aircraft represent a deficiency in the training of our pilots? Have there been discussions with the Garda and the Revenue Commissioners on the use of military aircraft in support of the civilian power's fight against drug and arms smuggling, which are all too prevalent, as the Minister knows from his city?

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