asked the Minister for Defence if it is proposed to commission the building of three all-weather fishery protection vessels; and, if so, when they are likely to be operational.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - All-Weather Fishing Protection Vessels.
201.
One all-weather fishery protection vessel has been ordered and is due to be delivered by April, 1972.
Agreement has been concluded with the British Ministry of Defence for the purchase of three vessels of the coastal minesweeper class. These will be brought into service during the next three months.
The effectiveness of these vessels for fishery protection will be evaluated over a period. Pending the outcome, the ordering of a second and third all-weather vessel is being deferred.