Jimmy Deenihan (Kerry North, Fine Gael)

I thank the Minister of State for his comprehensive reply but I am disappointed he is unable to reveal the number of applications and other details of the procurement process. Will provision be made in this year's Estimates for the funding for the procurement of three vessels if the project is going to tender in May? Has consideration been given to the manning of the vessels? They will be new and modern and will require an increased staffing complement. Have plans been put in place to ensure personnel will be available when the vessels are commissioned?

The Minister of State will be aware of the general low morale among Naval Service staff. The report, A Voyage of Understanding, stated morale among Navy personnel is quite low. This is understandable because they operate in antiquated, rough conditions. I hope to take a trip in a naval vessel next January to experience the conditions in which naval personnel sleep, eat and so on. What provision is being made in the Estimates for the commissioning of the ships? Has consideration been given to the staffing of the ships when they are acquired?

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