Billy Timmins (Wicklow, Fine Gael)
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Question 486: To ask the Minister for Defence the programme of equipment procurement he has in place for the Naval Service; the replacement date for the various naval vessels; if they will be replaced; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8004/06]

Willie O'Dea (Limerick East, Fianna Fail)
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In the White Paper on defence, the Government decided that the Naval Service will be developed around the provision of an eight-ship flotilla. In recent years, two new ships have been delivered to the Naval Service and the service is operating with the recommended eight ships. The total cost of the two ships was €50 million. Both ships have proved to be tremendous assets to the Naval Service in carrying out its various day to day roles. There is a continuous process of refurbishment of the current fleet. Through a combination of improved support, operational systems, equipment and ongoing maintenance, the operational capability of the Naval Service is maintained at a very high level.

The replacement programme for Naval Service vessels is under continuous review. As a general guide, the objective is to replace vessels after approximately 30 years service. On this basis, two vessels are due for replacement in the period 2007 to 2009. The issue is currently under examination and I expect it to be submitted to me for decision later this year.