Naval Service Ability To Discharge Its Duties Impacted By Declining Numbers.

Saturday, 22 May 2021 12:37

4 ships out of operation because of crew shortages.

Declining numbers in the naval service is impacting its ability to carry out key roles.

The Irish Examiner reports a retention crisis is making it difficult to conduct search-and-rescue operations and sea fishery protection.

Time flows quickly as Naval Service tries to keep personnel numbers afloat https://t.co/fS7r3UaUFJ
— Irish Examiner (@irishexaminer) May 22, 2021

The naval service is currently operating without four ships - the LE Eithne and LE Orla were taken out of operations in 2019 due to crew shortages.

The paper says a shortage of engine room specialists could tie up a further vessel or cut back on patrol hours.

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