Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 24 November 2015
84. Deputy Seán Ó Fearghaíl asked the Minister for Defence the length of time it is expected that the Naval Service will continue to be deployed in the Mediterranean; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [41173/15]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe deployment of naval assets to support Italy in addressing the humanitarian crisis in the Mediterranean has been very significant. L.É. Samuel Beckett, which is currently deployed, is the third ship to join the mission, following the successful deployments of L.É. Eithne and L.É. Niamh. The three Naval Vessels have rescued a combined total of 8,592 migrants to date. Ireland’s participation has been warmly welcomed and positively endorsed by the Italian authorities who appreciate the costs and demands of such deployments.
The rate of operations in the Mediterranean has declined in recent weeks as the deteriorating sea conditions at this time of the year increases the danger for all those who embark on the dangerous journey from North Africa to Europe. L.É. Samuel Beckett is scheduled to complete its deployment in early December 2015 subject to ongoing assessment of the crisis and the operational need to continue to provide such assistance.
The question of a further deployment to the operation in the Mediterranean next year will be evaluated over the coming months and will be considered in the context of the ongoing situation in the Mediterranean and the overall EU response thereto, the demands on the Defence Forces, our overseas commitments and available resources.
