(Limerick West): I propose to take Questions Nos. 7 and 10 together.
The strength of the Naval Service on 30 September 1987 was 859. The personnel requirements of the service are constantly kept under review in the light of current strengths and commitments. The question of further intakes of recruits at any time in the future will be examined in the context of general financial constraints and the overall budgetary situation.
The Naval Service has seven vessels at present including two non-operational minesweepers, LE Fola and LE Gráinne, which will be disposed of by sale in the near future. The replacement of the minesweepers is at present engaging the attention of the Government. The question of purchasing a submarine for the Naval Service has not been considered at any stage.