Erin McGreehan (Louth, Fianna Fail)
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212. To ask the Taoiseach and Minister for Defence for an update and timeline regarding the Naval Reserve’s plan to launch four new vessels for harbour protection; the reasons for the delays; and the revised total projected cost for the completion of the full project. [33267/25]

Simon Harris (Wicklow, Fine Gael)
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The Naval Service Vessel Renewal and Replacement Programme includes various projects to upgrade, replace or purchase new equipment, including the replacement of Naval Service Reserve motor launches. This project is included in the rolling Equipment Development Plan for the Defence Forces which encompasses a programme of sustained equipment procurement/acquisition across the Army, Air Corps and Naval Service as identified and prioritised in the Strategic Framework and the Detailed Implementation Plan for the Report of the Commission on the Defence Forces, building on the work done under the White Paper on Defence.

The €3.2m contract for the provision of 4 motor launches for the Naval Service Reserve on a phased basis was awarded to an Irish company, FM Marine Services, in Quarter 3 2021. The first vessel was delivered in Quarter 4 2024, with each subsequent vessel scheduled for delivery on an annual basis from 2025 - 2027. I am advised by the Defence Forces that while commencement of delivery was slightly delayed due to external supply factors which impacted on the build timeline, it is expected that all four launches will be in operational service with the Naval Service Reserve by mid 2027. There is currently no change to the projected cost of the contract which remains at €3.2m including VAT.

The procurement of these motor launches will ensure the Naval Service Reserve can continue to fulfil the contingent and current roles assigned. It will enhance their training and operational capability and provide for greater interoperability with the Permanent Defence Force and other State agencies such as the Irish Coast Guard.