Thomas Pringle (Donegal South West, Independent) | Oireachtas source

As I understand it, vessels built in Ireland for work in Irish waters cannot work in other waters. Similarly, vessels operating in other European jurisdictions cannot come to Ireland to work without making substantial alterations and modifications. This hampers Irish boat yards in being able to provide vessels that can work across Europe and also avail of offshore opportunities in Irish waters. The matter is similar to the training issue for staff that I raised; the Department should re-examine the matter to ensure Irish boat yards will be in a position to avail of the opportunities that present. I understand that if developments take place on the Irish Sea, up to 40 vessels could be required at short notice and that following the construction period, there will be an ongoing requirement for vessels to carry out maintenance works. There is an opportunity, of which we should be prepared to avail.

See this speech in context