Joe Carey (Clare, Fine Gael)
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Question 65: To ask the Minister for Defence his plans for the replacement of the Air Corps' Cessna fleet, which is 34 years old; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34435/07]

Willie O'Dea (Limerick East, Fianna Fail)
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As Minister for Defence I am delighted with the level of investment in new equipment for the Air Corps in recent years. The comprehensive investment programme included:

the delivery of eight Pilatus training aircraft at a total cost of €60m, inclusive of VAT.

two light utility EC 135 helicopters acquired from Eurocopter S.A.S. at a cost of €12.8m, inclusive of VAT.

six utility AW 139 helicopters acquired from the AgustaWestland at a cost of €75m inclusive of VAT, the final two of which are scheduled for delivery in 2008.

In addition, a major mid life upgrade on the two Casa maritime patrol aircraft, at a cost of €16.5m, is underway — work on the first aircraft is now complete, work on the second aircraft will be completed in 2008. The question of replacement of the Air Corps Cessna Fleet is under active consideration at present. The question of funding the replacement programme has to be considered in tandem with the overall equipment requirements of the Defence Forces generally and the funding available for same.