Alan Shatter (Dublin South, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I agree with everything Deputy Mac Lochlainn says. The Naval Service is an outstanding arm of the Defence Forces and Flag Officer Mark Mellett is doing a fantastic job.

There is their linkage with the private sector in seeking to participate in developments that would be of use to the Naval Service and which may result in products being created which could provide job creation opportunities. I am proud of the sophistication of what is happening in the college there.

The Deputy can be assured that I am extremely supportive of everything that is happening there, as is the Government. I very much welcomed the visit that members of the Joint Committee on Justice, Defence and Equality paid to Haulbowline. It gave an interesting insight into the innovation that is taking place. I would certainly encourage Members who are interested in these areas to pay a similar visit.

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