Bernard J. Durkan
Ceist:65 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Defence the extent to which replacement of vessels or equipment in respect of the Naval Service is proposed or postponed; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26234/02]
Written Answers. - Naval Service Vessels.
The Naval Service is the State's principal seagoing agency and is tasked with a variety of defence and other roles including fishery protection which is its principal peacetime role. It is equipped with a total of eight vessels comprising one helicopter carrying vessel, five offshore patrol vessels and two coastal patrol vessels.
Among this complement of vessels is the LE Róisín, which was commissioned in December, 1999, and the LE Niamh, which was commissioned in September 2001. Both ships were built by Appledore Shipbuilders Limited in England and their modern, state-of-the-art design and fit are proving a tremendous asset to the Naval Service in carrying out its tasks.
I am satisfied that the existing ship resources enable the Naval Service to carry out its role in a very effective manner and there is no requirement to replace any vessel at this stage.