asked the Minister for Defence the plans for the future of the naval base at Haulbowline and if any feasibility studies have been undertaken on the relocation of the base in an alternative area such as Bantry Bay, County Cork.

The Naval Service will continue to use the naval base at Haulbowline. With a view to facilitating the expansion of the service, consideration is being given to the question of providing a roadway between Haulbowline and Spike Island and additional facilities on Spike Island. A consulting engineer has been commissioned to carry out a study to determine the feasibility and cost of constructing a bridge or a causeway between the two locations.