State's new £20m patrol ship due into dry dock for repairs

The State's new Naval Service patrol ship, LE Roisin, is due into dry dock next week, after part of one of its bilge keels detached from the vessel.

Engineers from Appledore Shipyard in Devon, where the vessel was built at a cost of over £20 million, have been called in to inspect the hull after it returned to base at Haulbowline, Co Cork.

The bilge keel is one of four hull fittings that improve stability. It is normally held together by welding.

A spokesman stressed this was a new vessel, and said the weather conditions in which patrol ships operated would highlight any weaknesses. The shipbuilders expect to rectify the defect, which is not expected to affect the ship's operational programme. LE Roisin will be at sea today and will be checked when it docks at the weekend for routine maintenance.

The Minister for Defence, Mr Smith, said he intends to sign a contract with Appledore for a ninth Naval Service vessel this month. He has also promised to announce details next week of new aircraft for the Air Corps.

LE Roisin was delivered to Haulbowline late last year.

Technical difficulties delayed its passage from Devon to Cork.