Crew shortages could see navy ships ‘grind to halt’

Navy ships are in danger of “grinding to a halt” because there are less than half the number of engine room technicians required to keep them going, an organisation which represents Defences Forces’ personnel claims.

PDFORRA, which represents the Defence Forces’ 6,500 ordinary ranks, said the situation is “critical” and is calling on the Department of Defence urgently to address the situation.

PDFORRA general secretary Gerry Rooney said the Naval Service requires around 60 such technicians to keep the fleet on sea patrols, but now has less than 30. He said those left are finding it difficult to plug the gap and the strain has led to several technicians resigning from the navy.