Arrival of €50m navy ship delayed by propulsion problems

The Government will not accept delivery of a new €50 million-plus navy ship until problems with its propulsion system have been fixed.

The LÉ James Joyce was due to be handed over to the Naval Service last month but difficulties emerged with its mechanical system when it was undergoing sea trials in the Bristol Channel.

Minister for Defence Simon Coveney said he regarded the problems “as serious enough” not to sign off on accepting the vessel until they were rectified.