Paul Kehoe (Wexford, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

The Deputy asked about the fleet and the operational duties. The Naval Service is currently operating with six ships, which is 75% of allocated resources. It is inevitable that a lower level of operational output will continue over the coming months until the fleet is fully operational again. Where the Naval Service would on occasion visit harbours, specifically over the summer months, that has been curtailed and the remaining vessels put into operational duty because some of the vessels are tied up for examination.

The Deputy referred to personnel. All staff aboard the LE Ciaraand the LE Orlaand those in the Naval Service dockyard, including the civilian workforce, have been briefed on the position to date. All Naval Service personnel who have come into contact with asbestos have been screened by the Naval Medical Officer. In addition, health surveillance is being offered to all staff in accordance with regulations. Medical screening of civilian employees by an occupational health practitioner has been offered in accordance with regulations to all staff. Medical screening of civilian employees by an occupational health practitioner has commenced and will be completed in the coming weeks. An occupational health practitioner in asbestos has been briefed also. I assure the Deputy that this medical screening will be continued if needs be to make sure there are no dangers in place for staff.

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