New Naval Vessels major boost for Cork Harbour - Minister Martin

Confirmation that two new Offshore Patrol Vessels are in the process of being ordered for the navy represents a major boost not just for the service but for the entire Cork Harbour area, according to Fianna Fáil TD and Minister for Foreign Affairs, Micheál Martin, TD.

“The navy is a major employer in the Harbour area and its presence in Haulbowline ensures it plays a significant part in the economy of local communities and Cork. By purchasing two new vessels the Government is ensuring that our crews have the most up to date equipment to protect our coastline.”

“The new ships will join the high tech LE Niamh and LE Roisin which are familiar sights in the harbour and all along the Cork coast, where they protect Ireland from the threat of smugglers, drug dealers, foreign ships raiding our fish-stocks and oversee major search and rescue missions.”

“The Navy has a proud history in Cork, and the City and County has always provided top class recruits. We owe it to those dedicated men and women to ensure they have ships and equipment to support their important work.”

“The role of the Navy has been evolving and our modern ships not only serve our coastline but have been used as floating embassies to boost Ireland’s trade efforts in key markets across the world. The announcement of the new ships comes as the LE Niamh returns to Cork from an historic 10 week mission to Latin America.”

“The Captain and the crew of the ship carried out excellent work on behalf of Ireland by promoting our national interest in the region and building our diplomatic and trade links. Their efforts, supported by our embassies, will generate trade, investment and jobs for Ireland into the future”, concluded Minister Martin.