Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 10 March 2009
73 Deputy Thomas P. Broughan asked the Minister for Defence the proposed timetable for the acquisition of a replacement for the Asgard II; the funding allocated for this purpose; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [9759/09]
View answerThe Board of Coiste an Asgard has initiated planning for the procurement of a vessel similar in design to Asgard II but with a steel hull. A steel hulled vessel is less expensive to build and maintain than a wooden vessel.
It is not possible at this stage to give an estimated cost of building a new vessel other than to say that it would be substantial. It is only when tenders are received that we will know the cost. However, I am hopeful that the insured sum of €3.8m will go a long way towards funding a new ship.
