Brendan Howlin (Wexford, Labour) | Oireachtas source

I know from previous experience of working with the Minister that he has a particular regard for the Naval Service and has been very supportive in the past. Even in the worst of times we were able to provide significant resources for new vessels for the Naval Service. In that context, I am sure he shares my dismay that some of the vessels that are provided to the Naval Service were required to be tied up because of lack of trained personnel available to sail on them. In that context, I know a number of initiatives have been taken to try to improve pay and conditions. I asked a specific question on the number of Naval Service personnel eligible for the new loyalty bonus, but perhaps in his answer the Minister might give a comprehensive indication of how he intends to ensure that awful situation where vessels are tied up for want of personnel never happens.

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