asked the Taoiseach if any vessels are operated by his Department or any agency under the control of his Department, such as the National Board of Science and Technology for marine research or development, and if so, (a) the year of construction, principal dimensions, complement, displacement and estimated life span of such vessels, and (b) if any similar vessels are planned or replacements are being considered and, if so, if he will give details.
Written Answers. - Marine Research Vessels.
198.
No such vessel is operated by my Department.
The National Board for Science and Technology operate a marine research vessel, the Lough Beltra. This vessel, which was built in 1973, has the following dimensions:
|
Feet |
|
|
Length |
64.3 |
|
Breadth |
19.9 |
|
Depth |
10.0 |
The Lough Beltra has a total complement of 12, including four crew and eight scientific personnel. Its displacement is 92.36 tons gross or 45.92 tons net. It is estimated that its life span is ten years from a current date.
There are no plans at present for the provision of an additional vessel for marine research purposes.