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

I will read it into the record. To be frank, it is not an issue to which I have given consideration. Now that the Deputy has raised it, I certainly will and perhaps discuss it further with him. As he said, the tradition was to name them after Irish female mythological figures. In 2013, the then Minister instructed that a review of the naming policy should be undertaken. Following that review, the Minister came to the view that naming the ships after world-renowned Irish literary figures reflected a more modern and inclusive Ireland. The current position is that decisions relating to the naming of these vessels are under consideration and have yet to be taken. Perhaps we could marry the two.

See this speech in context