Brian O'Shea (Waterford, Labour)
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Question 329: To ask the Minister for Defence if realistic and funded proposals from private individuals or groups in regard to salvaging Asgard II have emerged; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8494/09]

Brian O'Shea (Waterford, Labour)
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Question 330: To ask the Minister for Defence if there are circumstances in which he would consider committing public moneys to a salvage operation for Asgard II; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8495/09]

Willie O'Dea (Limerick East, Fianna Fail)
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I propose to take Questions Nos. 329 and 330 together. When I announced my acceptance of the Board of Coiste an Asgard's unanimous recommendation that a salvage operation should not be pursued, I stated that I had been impressed by the expressions of support for Asgard II and indicated that I am open to considering any realistic and funded proposals from private individuals or groups as to the future of the vessel.

I have not yet been approached with any formal proposals from any private individuals or groups in the period since I made that statement. I am aware that there are some individuals who have expressed an interest in contributing to a fund, though it is probably too early to expect such funding to materialise in the absence of any firm proposals from groups or individuals to establish such a fund. I will consider any realistic proposals submitted to me but I cannot commit public monies to a salvage operation at this time. Obviously, the amount of funding raised would have a major bearing on any decision made in this regard.