Naval concern for ‘ageing’ vessels

MILITARY representatives have expressed concern about the deteriorating condition of Navy vessels and the lack of funds to replace aging ships which have been forced to remain docked for repairs.

Rank and file members want funds kept aside for ship replacements and have warned that nearly a third of Ireland’s major navy ships are up to 30 years old.

The Department of Defence said no decision had been made about cutting or freezing funds and said potential bidders for the new ships had been identified.