Micheál Martin (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail)
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The Naval Service Vessel Renewal and Replacement Programme is ongoing. The programme includes radar and other equipment upgrades along with the replacement of Naval Service Reserve motor launches. The programme of works for the midlife refit and upgrade of LÉ Róisín has been completed, while works are ongoing on LÉ Niamh. Marine Advisors have been appointed to support the procurement of a multi-role vessel to replace the now decommissioned flagship, LÉ Eithne, with work underway that will inform a public tender competition, in line with the Public Spending Code, in due course.

Two Inshore Patrol Vessels purchased from the New Zealand Government to replace the decommissioned LÉ Orla and LÉ Ciara have been transported to Ireland following the completion of a programme of works. Additional work and preparation is required in Cork prior to the vessels becoming operational by early 2024.

Micheál Martin (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail)
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The development of a primary radar capability was one of the key recommendations made in last year's report of the Commission on the Defence Forces. Demonstrating the Government’s commitment to implementing this recommendation, one of the Early Actions identified in the subsequent High Level Action Plan published in response to the Commission’s report, was to commence planning for military radar capabilities. In response to that, a project team, comprising senior civil and military personnel, was established and commenced work on planning for military radar capabilities. This includes ground based, maritime and primary radar systems.

It must be acknowledged, however, that delivery of primary radar in particular is extremely complex and will take some time to deliver. Nevertheless, delivery has been prioritised by Government and this year’s increased capital allocation for Defence includes funding to explore the development of this capability. Work that has been carried out to date includes identification of requirements and research into various delivery options, as well as consideration of approaches internationally. This has included a visit to another Member State.

Delivery of primary radar is a key capability priority for me as Tánaiste and Minister for Defence and I am determined to ensure its delivery within the earliest practicable timeframe.