David Stanton (Cork East, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

Before the Minister addresses those two questions on the Naval Service and the RDF, I wish to ask about the acquisition of a new ship. Will the Minister give an update on when that is expected to be delivered? I also note that the outturn for this year is €31 million compared to €33 million last year. I understand that takes into account the purchase of marine fuel and equipment but I am not sure whether it takes into account the purchase of vessels or whether it includes a provision for the contract for two new off-shore patrol vessels. There is one vessel due shortly and another one due some time thereafter.

I also concur with Deputy Mac Lochlainn's comments regarding what we saw at the Naval College and how impressed we all were on that visit.