Jimmy Deenihan (Kerry North, Fine Gael)

Judging by the tone of the Minister's initial response I am afraid the Asgard is doomed to remain at the bottom of the sea. I certainly hope that is not the case, however, if it is intact as the Minister's survey said it was. Can the Minister indicate how much it will cost to salvage the vessel, as well as the cost of a replacement vessel? I think the latter could be in the region of €9 million to €10 million. If the Minister is looking for a new vessel, the Jeanie Johnston has a proven track record and was built as a training ship. If it comes to that, it would provide an ideal opportunity as the Jeanie Johnston could be used temporarily. In this time of fiscal rectitude, it might be the solution for the future.

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