Displaying items by tag: Decomissioning

2nd July 2022

Naval Service Set to Retire Three Ships Next Week - One Might Become a Floating Museum

The former flagship of the Naval Service HPV LE Eithne (P31) is set to be decommissioned. The Helicopter Patrol Vessel (HPV) was the last Irish navy ship built which took place in 1984 at the Verolme Cork Dockyard (V.C.D.). AFLOAT highlights the vessel also became the last ever ship to be built in the Republic.

According to the Journal.ie the Naval Service is set to decommission three patrol vessels next week.

The Government are considering that the former (ageing) Irish Navy flagship the LÉ Eithne become a floating museum either in Cork city or in Dublin.

Sources have said that one consideration for the LÉ Orla and LÉ Ciara is that they be sold to a navy in Asia however the Department of Defence (DOD) has said this has not been confirmed.

“No final decisions have been made regarding the disposal of the three vessels post-decommissioning. Department officials are examining options to determine the most efficient and effective manner to dispose of the vessels,” a spokesperson said.

The DOD said that there were a number of options being considered including “safe and environmentally sound recycling via an EU approved ship-recycling facility”.

They are also considering a sale by auction to a private or foreign Government buyer, a direct transfer between Governments and also to donate the ships for a visitor’s attraction or museum.

“Consultations are ongoing with Dublin Port and Cork County Council regarding the donating of LÉ Eithne for use as a tourist attraction or a museum piece.

More here on the story.

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