asked the Minister for Defence if he has yet made any decision with regard to providing more up-to-date ships to enable the Naval Service to protect Irish territorial waters.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Naval Service Vessels.
35.
No decision has yet been taken on the question of providing more up-to-date ships for the protection of Irish territorial waters.
Does the Minister recognise the fact that more up-to-date ships are desirable?
I have already expressed my opinion to that effect here in the House.
Could the Minister tell the House when he is likely to take a decision because even though the funds at the disposal of the Government are limited, this is something that would help the economy to expand?
There are competent people examining the question and they have not yet completed their examination. When the examination is completed I will consider the matter.
We have the Minister's sympathy and he will give a decision to us as soon as possible, I would imagine.