Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 16 January 2013
819. Deputy Catherine Murphy asked the Minister for Defence if there is currently a plan, involving costs and a timetable, on future acquisitions of other vessels or upgrading for the Irish Naval Service; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [58199/12]
View answerA strategy for the replacement of Naval Service Offshore Patrol Vessels is currently in train. A contract was signed in October, 2010 with Babcock Marine in the United Kingdom for the provision of two new Offshore Patrol Vessels (OPV’s). The acquisition of these modern new vessels, combined with a continuous process of refurbishment and repair on the other vessels in the fleet, will ensure that the operational capability of the Naval Service is maintained at a satisfactory level and that the most up to date equipment is available to Naval Service personnel. The cost of the provision of the two new ships is €108m, exclusive of VAT. In addition, the cost of providing a weapons system for the ships, similar to the systems on LE Roisin and LE Niamh, is €7.8m, exclusive of VAT. Preparations for the construction of the ships have commenced in Appledore, UK. The build of the first ship is well advanced and the build of the second ship will commence in the near future. The first ship is scheduled for delivery in early 2014. The second ship will follow one year later.
I am satisfied that the equipment issued to the Naval Service is in keeping with the most modern requirements and the highest international standards. The ongoing investment in the Naval Service will ensure that this remains to be the case.
