Gerry O'Sullivan
Question:20 Mr. G. O'Sullivan asked the Minister for Defence if there are any naval vessels at present in dry dock at Haul-bowline, County Cork; and, if so, the reasons for same.
Ceisteanna — Questions Oral Answers. - Naval Service Resources.
Jim O'Keeffe
Question:35 Mr. J. O'Keeffe asked the Minister for Defence if he has satisfied himself that the Naval Service has sufficient manpower and resources for fishery protection duties.
Eamon Gilmore
Question:37 Mr. Gilmore asked the Minister for Defence the number of vessels at present under the control of the Naval Service; the number of vessels at sea; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Eric J. Byrne
Question:39 Mr. Byrne asked the Minister for Defence if his attention has been drawn to the criticism regarding manning levels in the Naval Service, expressed in a recent interview in An Cosantóir by the Commanding Officer of the Naval Service (details supplied); if it is intended to recruit additional personnel; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
I propose to take Questions Nos. 20, 35, 37 and 39 together.
The Naval Service have seven patrol vessels two of which the LE Orla and LE Ciara, were acquired in late 1988 and went into operational service in January 1989. Naval Service vessels are taken out of service from time to time to allow for crew leave, scheduled maintenance and other contingencies. It would be undesirable for operational reasons to disclose detailed information as to the number of Naval Service vessels at sea or in port at any time.
I am satisfied that the manpower and resources available are adequate to enable the Naval Service to effectively discharge its functions. In this regard in late 1988-early 1989 100 recruits were enlisted. To date in 1990 116 recruits and ten technicians have been enlisted.
Following the adoption by the Fisheries Council of the European Communities of a decision providing for substantial funding for fisheries surveillance in member states, the Department of the Marine, in consultation with the Department of Defence and other Departments, is currently preparing a programme for submission to the European Commission for funding for maritime surveillance equipment. I spent some time on that matter when dealing with the previous question.
That disposes of questions for today.
By virtue of the fact that you disallowed my Private Notice Question I ask your permission to raise the matter on the Adjournment.
I will communicate with the Deputy in respect of that matter.