Mick Barry (Cork North Central, Solidarity) | Oireachtas source

We have a difference of opinion on this issue and I think we should get to the root of it. I have said that my information, over which I stand, is that only six of the Naval Service's eight ships can put out to sea at any one time. I asked the Minister of State if that was the position. He huffed and puffed and said that my information was wrong, but then proceeded to indicate that the ships are all capable of operating at present. That is not quite the same thing. I will ask the Minister of State again. Are we in a position to put all eight ships out to sea at the same time or are we incapable of putting 25% of our ships out as a result of staff vacancies, which he and I know have arisen as a result of the issue of low pay? Moreover, is he going to address this matter?

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