Liz McManus
Ceist:95 Ms McManus asked the Minister for Defence when the LE Roisin will be operational; the plans, if any, there are to provide additional vessels; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [20453/99]
Written Answers. - Naval Service Vessels.
The LE Roisin is currently undergoing acceptance tests and sea trials prior to delivery which is due to take place within the next few weeks. On arrival at the Naval Base, Haulbowline, crew training will be undertaken and the fitting of additional Naval Service equipment which was not included in the ship build contract will be carried out. The training involved will cover all aspects of the operation of the new vessel and its equipment. The vessel will be formally commissioned into the Naval Service on completion of this training and will be operational immediately thereafter.
Consideration is being given to the question of the purchase of another fishery protection vessel similar to the LE Roisin as a replacement for the LE Deirdre which has completed almost twenty eight years in use to date and is approaching the end of its economic service life.