Paul Kehoe (Wexford, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I propose to take Questions Nos. 28 and 48 together.

LE James Joycewas deployed on 8 July 2016 to assist the Italian authorities in the continuing search and rescue humanitarian operation in the Mediterranean Sea. Since deployment, LE James Joycehas conducted a number of search and rescue operations which, to date, has led to the rescue of 2,678 migrants from unseaworthy craft. LE James Joycehas recovered 21 deceased migrants which again highlights the bleak circumstances in which many migrants find themselves. LE James Joyceis scheduled to return to Ireland on the 30 September 2016.

On 23 September 2016, LE Samuel Beckettdeparted Haulbowline, with a crew of approximately 60, to replace LE James Joyceon the mission in the Mediterranean Sea. It is anticipated that LE Samuel Beckettwill be deployed until the end of November 2016.

To date, Irish participation in the humanitarian mission has resulted in the recovery of more than 12,500 migrants, which clearly demonstrates the value of Ireland’s involvement in this important humanitarian response.

The question of further deployment to the operation in the Mediterranean Sea in 2017 will be considered in the context of the ongoing situation in the Mediterranean Sea and the overall EU response thereto, the demands on the Defence Forces, our overseas commitments and available resources.

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