asked the Minister for Defence why no provision is being made for the construction of a purpose built training vessel to replace L.E. Setanta which has been out of service for months and is nearing the end of her useful life; and if he considers the acquisition of such a vessel a vital necessity at this time due to the expansion of the Naval Service and the requirement to train large numbers of men.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Replacement of L.E. Setanta.
8.
The training and auxiliary vessel L.E. Setanta is at present being availed of for the provision of accommodation and the training of recruits at the Naval Base in Haulbowline. This vessel is nearing the end of her useful life but I have taken no decision as to when she will be withdrawn from service. When she ceases to operate, her duties will be carried out by the patrol vessels of the Naval Service.
The recent commissioning of L.E. Aisling has provided greater scope for the training of naval personnel at sea and the proposed new helicopter-bearing vessels will add significantly to the number of training berths available.
Is it not true that the L.E. Setanta has gone beyonds its usefulness and is no longer in the service of the navy? Surely it is time to replace a training vessel of this sort? Is it not also true that on the training vessels L.E. Setanta there is accommodation for six trainees only? Is that not a factor also in the recruitment drive?
Surely the Deputy is aware that there have been quite a number of vessels commissioned over the last two years.
Are they designed for training?
Certainly they can be used for training purposes. We do not propose to get another ship similar to the L.E. Setanta.
Question No. 9 is for written reply.