Jimmy Deenihan (Kerry North, Fine Gael)

One of our naval vessels will soon be 30 years old and will by that stage have outlived its usefulness. It is possible that, due to cutbacks, this vessel may not be replaced in the immediate future. Will the Minister clarify whether it will be replaced? If the vessel is to be retained, then it is important that it be properly maintained. Maintenance is going to be extremely important not only in the context of the vessel in question but also with regard to the other two vessels that are due to reach the end of their operational lifespans in the next two to three years.

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