Ivor Callely
Question:52 Mr. Callely asked the Minister for Defence the condition of the Naval Service vessels; the upgrading work identified for the vessels; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12480/99]
Written Answers. - Naval Service Vessels.
In recent years considerable sums have been expended under the Defence Vote in updating Naval Service vessels and equipment. The total amounts spent on such items in the past four years were 1995 – £4.3 million, 1996 – £4.1 million, 1997 – £10.1 million, 1998 – £15.5 million and it is anticipated that expenditure will be in the region of £22.5 million in 1999.
The more important developments in relation to the improvement of Naval Service vessels and equipment include the construction currently of a new fishery protection patrol vessel and the refit of five of the existing seven Naval Service vessels. The new vessel is due for delivery later this year and will cost more than £20 million.
Refits involve replacing and/or refurbishing obsolete or deteriorated equipment and are necessary to extend the operational life of a vessel. Earlier this year a refit of LE Eithne was completed in the Naval Dockyard, Haulbowline, at an estimated cost of £2.06 million. In previous years four other vessels –LE Emer, LE Deirdre, LE Aoife and LE Aisling– have been similarly refitted. The two remaining vessels –LE Orla and LE Ciara– will undergo refurbishment over the next two years, with work starting on LE Orla later this year. These refits have been facilitated by part-cost recoupment under the European Union fishery protection programmes.
I am satisfied that a fair share of available resources has been allocated to the Naval Service to enable it to discharge effectively the tasks assigned to the service.