Paul Kehoe (Wexford, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I can assure the Deputy that the members of the Naval Service who are carrying out the rescue operations were trained to a very high standard. If one looked at the work carried out in 2015 and to date in 2016 it would give an overview of exactly the training they have gone through for such an operation. Those involved must be commended on the work they have carried out to date, because it is very difficult. They came across two female fatalities in recent days, which can be very difficult for members. However, I assure the Deputy that the members of the forces are given every assistance and all training required to carry out their work on the Mediterranean Sea.

I will conclude by saying that the Irish Naval Service is very well served in the equipment it uses and the vessels it operates. Yesterday I signed off on the commission for a fourth vessel. The UK contractors will start building that fourth ship in the next few weeks. The Government's investment in the Irish Naval Service over the last years is very much to the fore.

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