Politics

Government plans to spend €45m on new ministerial aeroplane to replace LearJet

Move comes after problems faced by state over recent times due to breakdowns of existing aircraft

Tánaiste Micheál Martin was his officials that the government jet, a Learjet, would need to be replaced as it reaches the end of its life cycle. Picture: RollingNews.ie

The government plans to spend €45 million on a new plane to replace the struggling LearJet after nearly 20 years.

Documents published by the Department of Defence show it is seeking a new jet, with 10 seats, to be operated by the Irish Air Corps. The estimated value of the contract is €45.4 million.

It comes after prolonged issues with the LearJet, which broke down again last week – prompting the government to charter a €7,000-per-hour business aircraft to bring Tánaiste Micheál Martin to the Middle East for a diplomatic visit.