Ciarán Lynch (Cork South Central, Labour)
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Question 44: To ask the Minister for Defence the position in regard to the refurbishment programme for the [i]Creidne[/i]; when it will be available for training purposes; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24696/09]

Michael McGrath (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail)
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Question 71: To ask the Minister for Defence if Coiste an Asgard has put a sail training programme in place for 2009 using the [i]Creidne[/i]; the number of journeys and places available; the costs of these places; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24659/09]

Willie O'Dea (Limerick East, Fianna Fail)
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I propose to take Questions Nos. 44 and 71 together.

The refurbishment programme for the Creidne is almost complete. The vessel is due to undergo trials over the coming days and I expect it to be ready in time for its first voyage on the 3rd July.

The Creidne Sail Training Programme begins on 3 July and ends on 11 September. During that time it will undertake five voyages, mainly along the Irish coastline with some voyages visiting the Isle of Man and the South West coast of England. Each voyage will cater for eight trainees at a cost of €40 per day for trainees under the age of 18 years and €50 per day for other trainees. The duration of each voyage varies from four to nine days.

I am pleased to say that the level of interest in the programme has been good and there are only a few places left at this stage.