Micheál Martin (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Deputy for the question. My priority as Minister for Defence is to ensure the operational capability of the Defence Forces is maintained to the greatest extent possible to enable them to carry out their roles as assigned by Government.

Two inshore patrol vessels were purchased for €26 million on a government-to-government basis from New Zealand to replace the now decommissioned LÉ Orlaand LÉ Ciara. The ceremonial handover of the vessels took place in Auckland last week, representing the culmination of a year-long project to regenerate and modify the vessels' operational seaworthiness standards. The work was undertaken by the New Zealand Defence Force and overseen by the Irish Naval Service and Department of Defence. Both vessels are expected to complete their acceptance testing and commence transportation to Ireland by the end of this month. With a transit time of at least a month, they are expected to arrive in Cork in May. On arrival, the vessels will undergo a comprehensive programme of works, including crew familiarisation and training, which will take place in the vicinity of Cork Harbour and the naval base at Haulbowline. It is expected that these vessels will be in a position to commence operational service in 2024.

The vessels have fully automated control and navigation systems, a powerful engine, modern communications and surveillance systems, active stabilisers and comfortable accommodation. Both ships are capable of undertaking boarding operations and surveillance. The core crew complement of each vessel will be between 20 and 24 suitably qualified and experienced personnel. The specific ranks and specialisations of these personnel will be an operational matter.

The Defence Forces have reviewed requirements and capabilities and consider that the vessels are suitable for Irish operations in the Irish Sea on the east and south-east coast.

Notwithstanding the current staffing challenges, the Naval Service continues to carry out all roles assigned by Government, including fishery protection and maritime security operations surveillance in the Irish exclusive economic zone, and their ongoing capacity to do so is carefully monitored. I am advised that the fleet is managed and maintained to ensure maximum availability to meet operational requirements.

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