Coveney vows measures to stem drain of manpower from navy

Two Naval inflatables taking part in exercises in Cork Harbour near their base in Haulbowline, Cork. Picture Dan LInehan

Defence Minister Simon Coveney is to bring an emergency “suite of measures” to Cabinet by the end of July to try to stem the manpower crisis in the Naval Service which could see two more ships tied up by the end of the year.

It is expected the measures will include increased allowances for seamen and steps to make it a more attractive career for professionals such as marine engineers, who currently work in the private sector but who could be recruited by so-called direct entry.