asked the Minister for Defence if he will state the functions laid down for the naval service; and whether the present vessels are the most suited for fulfilling these functions.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Functions of Naval Service.
The naval service is an integral part of Óglaigh na hÉireann and its primary function in time of war would be the implementation of national defence plans in so far as they related to seaward defence. Its main functions in time of peace are training to fulfil its wartime rôle and protection of our fisheries.
As regards the second part of the Deputy's question, while the present vessels have proved satisfactory on fishery protection duties, I have no doubt that vessels more suited for fulfilling the functions of the naval service, particularly the wartime function, could be obtained if our financial resources permitted.