asked the Minister for Defence if he considers that fishery protection could be more economically carried out by faster and smaller units if made available to the Irish Naval Service.
Ceisteanna-Questions. Oral Answers. - Fishery Protection.
31.
I am at present examining the whole question of fishery protection and this examination includes consideration of the type of vessels to be used for this purpose.
(Cavan): Is the Minister aware that the three corvettes at present owned by the Department of Defence were built in 1940 or 1941, saw considerable war service with the British, were purchased by us in 1946 or 1947 and are much too slow to overtake and effect the arrest of any or most poaching trawlers? Does the Minister agree that is so?
Major refits of the three vessels in question were completed in 1957, 1958, and 1960, respectively; one in each year. The marine surveyor indicated that with normal routine care, these vessels should give many more years of useful service.
That does not make them any faster.
The question as to whether these boats are too slow is another matter. It is a matter that will be examined by people competent to examine it.
(Cavan): Does the Minister agree with Deputy Booth when he says that the naval services are a joke?
We heard here, before, references to the Irish Naval Service as rubber ducks. I think this Government will fulfil its national obligations in the provision of the armed services needed by the State.
(Cavan): The Minister does not agree with Deputy Booth then.
Would the Minister not consider using a helicopter for that purpose? Or would it be too fast.