Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 18 February 2014
603. Deputy Seán Kenny asked the Minister for Defence the maximum number of years in service a Defence Forces Naval Service vessel should serve before it should be replaced; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7903/14]
View answerThere is a fleet of eight ships assigned to the Naval Service. I am advised that the nominal life span for a naval service vessel is in the region of 30 years. However, a continuous process of husbandry, refurbishment and repair by the Naval Service on vessels in the fleet ensures that the operational capability of the Naval Service is maintained at a satisfactory level beyond the nominal life. In order to maintain maximum availability and serviceability, major maintenance for each vessel is planned in advance and is incorporated into an annual patrol plan for the Naval Fleet.
A strategy for the replacement of Naval Service Offshore Patrol Vessels is currently in train. A contract was signed in October 2010, with Babcock Marine for the provision of two new offshore Patrol Vessels (OPVs). The first ship is scheduled for delivery in the coming weeks. 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.
