40 Mr. Howlin asked the Minister for Defence the progress which has been made regarding his examination of the possibility of acquiring training aircraft with interceptor capability; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30648/01]

69 Mr. Deasy asked the Minister for Defence the capabilities of the Defence Forces and in particular the Air Corps to detect over-flying by foreign aircraft, both civil and military, which have been authorised and unauthorised; and his views on reports that Ireland does not have that capability. [30245/01]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 40 and 69 together.

The issue of air defence is being examined by the military authorities in light of the terrible events of 11 September. The possible acquisition of aircraft to fulfil an air defence role is also a consideration. In addition, the Department is in the process of purchasing several batteries of air defence guns including radars from the Royal Netherlands Air Force. The radar systems will have the capacity to detect overflights by aircraft.

41 Mr. Boylan asked the Minister for Defence if the contract for the purchase of helicopters has been agreed; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30621/01]

The tender competition for the acquisition of medium lift helicopters for the Air Corps is ongoing. A decision has not yet been made in the matter and accordingly no contract has been agreed or signed as yet. I expect to be in a position to make an announcement on this matter shortly.