Question
299. Deputy Finian McGrath asked the Minister for Justice and Equality if she will provide funding for the purchase of extra helicopters or aircraft for the Garda air support unit; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [43569/15]
Answer
Minister for Justice and Equality (Deputy Frances Fitzgerald): I am advised by the Commissioner that the Garda Air Support Unit currently consists of a fixed wing Defender aircraft and two EC135T2 helicopters. Earlier this year I secured an additional €1.8 million in capital funding for the replacement and upgrade of equipment on the Defender aircraft. The question of the replacement of the Defender aircraft as it nears the end of its estimated lifetime in a number of years time is under consideration by An Garda Síochána and my Department.