asked the Minister for Defence if he has decided to replace the corvettes now servicing the fishery defences of the country by more up-to-date ships; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

As I informed the Deputy on 29th January, 1964, in reply to a similar question, the replacement of the corvettes is not at present contemplated.

Can the Minister hold out any hope for the future of the Irish Naval Service or is the Service wedded to these out-of-date corvettes for all time?

I think it is a bit premature to express an opinion on that matter.

It has been going on for a good many years.