Charlie O'Connor (Dublin South West, Fianna Fail)
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Question 46: To ask the Minister for Defence the arrangements in place for the disposal of old Defence Force vans and trucks; if his Department has procedures for making such redundant vehicles available to charitable or community groups; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23959/06]

Willie O'Dea (Limerick East, Fianna Fail)
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Military vehicles undergo regular maintenance and overhauls to ensure that they are roadworthy and provide value for money service. When, having regard to age, condition and mileage, vehicles are considered by military transport personnel to have reached the end of their economic life, they are proposed for disposal. Before the disposal action can be commenced, each vehicle requires examination and certification by a Military Board of Survey. A procedure has been adopted in recent years whereby all military vehicles are disposed of by public auction with due cognisance given to the age, condition and mileage of the vehicles and their suitability for sale in that manner.

From time to time charitable organisations approach the Department requesting that an obsolete vehicle, such as an old ambulance or minibus, be donated to them. Such requests are considered on their own merit. Registered Charitable Organisations are assisted when possible, allowing for the fact they would not be in a financial position to purchase such a vehicle otherwise.