216 Mr. Lawlor asked the Minister for Defence if he will respond to concerns regarding the acquisition by the Defence Forces of new helicopters and the arguments (details supplied) put forward in favour of the Sikorsky option; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23883/01]

The tender competition for the acquisition of medium lift helicopters for the Air Corps is progressing well. This major investment programme involves the acquisition of two medium lift helicopters, with an option of a third, for search and rescue purposes, as well as an option for two medium lift helicopters for general purpose military transport. Tenders were invited on 5 March 2001 and the closing date was 19 April 2001. Four tenders were received. The four companies involved are Sikorsky from the USA, EH Industries Ltd. from England, Eurocopter from France and CHC

Scotia from Scotland.

The tenders received are being subjected to a comprehensive evaluation process which included visits to each of the four companies involved. This evaluation is being undertaken by a project team comprising officials from my Department and Air Corps personnel assisted by an outside consultant. The team's report will be examined by my Department to ensure policy and procedural compliance, after which negotiations will be entered into with a selected contractor.