asked the Minister for Defence if an order has already been placed for the modern-day rifle; if so, with whom; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

22.

asked the Minister for Defence when it is expected that a decision will be reached on the replacement of the FN rifle now in use by the Defence Forces; the number of rifles it is expected will be purchased; the total predicted cost; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

(Limerick West): I propose to take Questions Nos. 14 and 22 together. The question of the replacement of the 7.62mm FN rifle used by the Permanent Defence Force is under active consideration in my Department. Tenders have recently been received for the supply of replacement weapons and these are being examined at present. I will announce in due course when a decision has been made in the matter.

What is the cause of the delay? The rifle being used by the Army at present is outdated and inadequate.

(Limerick West): As I said, this matter is under active consideration. Tenders have been received and they are being considered. I hope to make an announcement in the very near future. I can assure the Deputy that there will be no unnecessary delay before I make the announcement and an order is placed.

Will the Minister tell the House how many tenders have been received and from which countries?

They are separate questions.

(Limerick West): It would be inappropriate at this stage to give that information.

Can the Minister give us an assurance that no tender is being entertained from Chile?

(Limerick West): As I said, it would be inappropriate for me to give details of tenders received because they are under active consideration at present.

Do I take it, by implication, that there is a tender in the Department from Chile?

(Limerick West): I did not say that. The Deputy can take any implication he wishes——

What is the difficulty in telling us if there is a tender from Chile? If there is no tender from Chile, why not tell us and clear the air?

Because the Minister does not mean——

I am directing my questions to the Minister.

(Limerick West): I am not in a position at present to indicate the details, the amounts or other information with regard to tenders and it would be very inappropriate for me to do so while they are under active consideration.

Will the Minister agree that his statement that he will place the order for the new weapons as soon as possible is a vain hope on his part having regard to the fact that the amount of the subhead for Defence equipment has been reduced for 1988 from £10 million to £8 million? I put it to the Minister that the reduced figure will only be able to pay carry-over obligations from 1987 into 1988 and will not permit the purchase of the new weapons.

(Limerick West): I hope to be in a position to place an order this year.

To be paid out of the 1988 Estimate?

(Limerick West): 1988 is another year.

I do not know where all the money is coming from.

Were I the Minister I would place the order and get the weapons.