David Stanton (Cork East, Fine Gael)
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Question 551: To ask the Minister for Defence the progress made in procuring two new ships for the naval service; when the contracts are due to be signed; the estimated cost of each ship; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [36143/10]

Tony Killeen (Clare, Fianna Fail)
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A strategy for the replacement of Naval Service Offshore Patrol Vessels (OPVs) commenced in 2007 and following a two-stage tender competition a preferred bidder, Babcock Marine, was selected last year. During my visit to the Naval Base at Haulbowline last July, I announced that approval had been granted to proceed to contract placement. A contract has now been placed with Babcock Marine and that the first new vessel is scheduled for delivery in early 2014. The second vessel will follow one year later. The contract value is of the order of €100m.

The acquisition of these modern new vessels, combined with a continuous process of refurbishment and repair, will ensure that the operational capability of the Naval Service is maintained at a satisfactory level.