Seán Sherlock (Cork East, Labour)
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Question 128: To ask the Minister for Defence if a decision has been made in regard to the replacement of the Air Corps Cessna fleet; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42773/08]

Willie O'Dea (Limerick East, Fianna Fail)
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The issue of the replacement of the Air Corps Cessna Fleet is under consideration. 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 this. As the Deputy may be aware, a very significant level of investment in new equipment for the Air Corps has taken place 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 AgustaWestland, Italy at a cost of €75m inclusive of VAT, the final one of which was delivered this month.

A major mid life upgrade on the two Casa maritime patrol aircraft, at a cost of €16.5m.