Donal Carey
Question:19 Mr. Carey asked the Minister for Defence the plans, if any, he has to increase the number of Naval Service vessels in the immediate future; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Written Answers. - Naval Service Strength.
Pat Cox
Question:24 Mr. Cox asked the Minister for Defence, in view of the plans to recruit personnel for the Naval Service, the plans, if any, there are to purchase new ships in 1994.
I propose to take Questions Nos. 19 and 24 together.
The capability of the Naval Service to fulfil its role, which is primarily to provide a fishery protection service, is kept under constant review. While there are no plans at present to purchase new vessels to supplement the existing fleet this matter will be considered in the context of the implementation of the Government's commitment, as set out in theProgramme for a Partnership Government 1993-1997, to seek EU aid to improve and extend the range and effectiveness of Ireland's fisheries surveillance measures. The proposed intake of recruits is intended to replace the normal wastage of personnel from the Naval Service.