asked the Minister for Defence the number of fishery protection vessels, planes and helicopters now available to his Department for fishery protection.

(Dún Laoghaire): The fishery protection service is comprised of four all-weather patrol vessels, two minesweepers and two fixed wing aircraft.

: Do I take it from the Minister's reply that there are no helicopters available?

(Dún Laoghaire): A helicopter is on order and delivery is expected in December 1984. It will be used in conjunction with the contract signed on 23 April 1982 with Verolme dockyard for the construction of the new patrol vessel for the Naval Service. That vessel is a completely new design and will be fitted with a helideck and hangar for the operation of a helicopter. It is due for delivery in May 1984.

: When will the helicopters be available?

(Dún Laoghaire): In respect of two twin-engine Dauphin helicopters, delivery is expected in December 1984.

: When will the helicopter-carrying patrol vessel be commissioned?

(Dún Laoghaire): It is due for delivery in May 1984.