Gerard Craughwell (Independent) | Oireachtas source

I too add my condolences to the family of Alexis Fitzgerald.

There is much congratulatory talk this morning on the crew of the LE Eithne. It is rather surprising that the crew has had to put in a claim to be compensated for overseas service and that it has not been met on the same terms as would be afforded were the crew on UN service.I do not know how far that claim has progressed but for those who put their lives in jeopardy to serve this country, rescuing refugees in the Mediterranean is not just about the issue of rough seas and so on. We see they are garbed up when they undertake these rescues but we do not know if sick people are being brought on board that ship. When these men and women of the Naval Service are away from home there is serious family hardship. I ask the Leader to inquire of the Minister about the claim with respect to their overseas service payment.

We should note that Rear Admiral Mark Mellett is the first ever naval officer to take over as Chief of Staff of the Defence Forces, and it is a great day for the Naval Service.