Paul Kehoe (Wexford, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

The three Royal Navy university training boats, named HMS Charger, HMS Biterand HMS Pursuer, were in Ireland as part of a routine visit.  During the course of their visit, Naval Service cadets and members of the Naval Service Reserve participated in cross-service training in navigation and seamanship. I am also advised that, while in Haulbowline, members of the crews of the three vessels paid a courtesy visit to the Flag Officer Commanding of the Naval Service, FOCNS, Commodore Mick Malone.

The Ireland-UK memorandum of understanding on defence and security co-operation provides for bilateral engagement on exercises, training and military education.

Visits from foreign naval vessels are a long-standing and common practice not only in Ireland but worldwide.

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