Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 27 January 2022
139. Deputy Éamon Ó Cuív asked the Minister for Defence if consideration is been given to using Galway Port along with Dún Uí Mhaoilíosa, An Rinn Mhór, Gaillimh as a base for the Naval Service in the west of Ireland in view of its central location on the west coast; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3293/22]
View answerThe Deputy may be interested to note that there is currently a programme of infrastructure works taking place at the Naval Base in Haulbowline with the objective of increasing the berthage capacity in the Dockyard Basin at Haulbowline to meet the requirements of the Naval Service fleet.
This programme of works includes:
- -Upgrading of Spencer Jetty- works at an advanced stage and due for completion in the coming weeks at an estimated cost of €2.7m;
- -Dredging of the Graving Dock- sampling and analysis is currently underway with the main dredging works expected following on from same at an estimated cost of €2.5m excl VAT;
- -Further development of the West Wall to facilitate additional berthage.
My Department has not been advised of any current operational requirements for the use of Galway Port as a base for the Naval Service. If future operational requirements of this nature arise, they will be considered.
