Tony Killeen (Clare, Fianna Fail)

I do not want to give the impression that a flotilla of eight is comfortable. The job is, however, being well done within existing resources. LE Aoife was off the west coast of Clare recently and LE Aisling will be in Galway docks next year celebrating 30 years. LE Niamh is returning from a long and positive trip to South America in which it was part of the celebrations of the Irish connection to the historical freedom movements in Argentina and Chile. It also visited US east coast areas which have strong Irish maritime links.

The addition of the Casa aircraft to fisheries protection and drug enforcement has given additional capabilities. New equipment has also made these jobs somewhat easier and more professional.

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