Seán Ryan (Dublin North, Labour)
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Question 396: To ask the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the number of vehicles in the State car pool; the make, engine size and average age of the vehicles; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [11968/06]

Michael McDowell (Dublin South East, Progressive Democrats)
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Ministerial State cars are placed at the disposal of Ministers and others pursuant to a long-standing arrangement and are supplied to the following: Taoiseach, Tánaiste, 13 Ministers, President, Chief Whip, Ceann Comhairle, Attorney General, Director of Public Prosecutions, Chief Justice, former Taoisigh and Presidents.

There are no set rules as to when ministerial cars are replaced but, in general, those which are two years old and — or have a mileage in excess of 100,000 miles are considered for replacement. The current average mileage of a ministerial car is approximately 77,000 miles. On average, between eight and ten cars are replaced each year.

There are 26 vehicles in the ministerial fleet. The following vehicles form part of this fleet: Mercedes E240, Mercedes E320, Mercedes S350, Volvo S80, Lexus GS300, SAAB 95, Ford Mondeo Ghia.

In addition to the above, the ministerial fleet also includes a number of spare vehicles, of similar makes and models to those listed above, required for emergency purposes, and a Rolls Royce Wraith which is used for certain presidential engagements.